Dorothy Westerman
Northern News Services

Inuvik (May 24/04) - A long, dusty trail awaits Anglican Bishop Larry Robertson. But well prepared with his new walking shoes, he will soon begin a journey from Inuvik to Fort McPherson, 185 km down the Dempster Highway.

Larry Robertson, bishop of the Diocese of the Arctic, will walk from Inuvik to Fort McPherson. - Dorothy Westerman/NNSL photo

"It's a fair walk, but I'm not doing it in an afternoon," Robertson said in a recent interview.

Robertson said he got the idea to walk and raise funds for worthwhile programs in the North from his own travels.

"When we work together, we can do anything. Healing can come by working together," he said.

"There is a lot of hurt and pain here -- it's a reality in our community, but there is also a lot of strength in the people of the North."

The walk is a way to raise awareness and funds for these much-needed programs, he said.

Robertson will start his hike after the regular Sunday church service at the Anglican Church of the Ascension.

He intends to cover up to 20 km a day and will camp in the evenings. He is seeking volunteers to drive the accompanying vehicle.

The miles on the road will be a time of prayer and reflection.

"Surrounded by the bush and trees allows me to pray and look at things," he said.

"But I hope people will come by and have a cup of coffee in the evenings along the journey," he said.

He will hold a church service in Fort McPherson when he completes the journey on June 27.

Donations may be made payable to the Diocese of the Arctic (healing fund).

Those wishing to help with the driving may contact either Bishop Larry or his wife Sheila at 777-5990.