Walk for Peace monks arrive in Virginia, on the way to Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A group of Buddhist monks on a 2,300-mile journey to Washington, D.C., has entered Virginia, continuing their trek through severe wintry weather.

About two dozen monks and their rescue dog, Aloka, embarked on the cross-country journey last year from Texas to the capital to promote national healing, unity and compassion, according to organizers.

The trek, now in its 96th day, crossed the state border from North Carolina into Virginia on Wednesday evening. The group stayed the night at Pleasant Hill Christian Church in Gasburg, where they held a peace sharing talk with dozens of community members in attendance.

When are the Walk for Peace monks coming to Richmond?

The monks are headed toward Central Virginia, with planned stops in Lawrenceville and Alberta on Thursday, Jan. 29. They will spend Thursday night at the Gift From God Worship Center, according to a social post.

"The journey continues through Virginia, one step at a time," the group wrote.

In a video shared by Walk for Peace, the Buddhist monks, escorted by law enforcement officers, can be seen walking on snow-covered roads through icy weather over the weekend. Supporters also lined up along the streets in the cold weather in support of the group.

As of the time of reporting, the pilgrimage is set to conclude in Washington, D.C. by Feb. 10. According to a map tracking the monks’ journey, they're expected to arrive in Richmond on Feb. 1.

To follow along the monks’ journey, check this map for their live location and this map for the route overview. Visit Walk for Peace for daily updates and more information.