Preservation Efforts for St. Coletta’s Blessed Mother Statue

Every year in May, St. Coletta’s of Illinois organizes a crowning ceremony in front of the Blessed Mother statue. This event occurs at their facility in Tinley Park, which serves children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Heather Benedick, the nonprofit’s CEO, explained the ceremony: “We have Mass and process out, and everyone carries flowers to place at the feet and a crown of flowers on her head.” The priest sermonizes on how comforting Mary is, reinforcing that message whenever attendees view the statue.

The statue, initially positioned at St. Coletta’s Palos campus for almost 40 years before its relocation to Tinley Park in 2001, is suffering from weather-related wear. Its soft marble, designed for outdoor display, now shows signs of puckering and discoloration, though these blemishes are minor from afar. The organization aims to construct a protective structure to curb further damage, estimated to cost between $50,000 and $80,000. They call on the community, alumni, and friends to contribute through their website, www.st.colletasofil.org, or by calling 708-342-5200.

Restoration of the statue itself, located near the school entrance, could exceed $100,000. With this, the focus is on damage prevention. Benedick, involved with the school for 24 years, described the statue as “very striking” and a special place for prayer. People can leave prayer cards at the statue, and a shelter would protect such offerings. The proposed structure would stand three feet tall, with posts and a roof.

David J., a long-term school attendee who now resides in a Markham group home, expressed his fondness for the statue, emphasizing his desire for its restoration: “I want to see it restored, to see it weatherproof, so it doesn’t get so bad.” Faith plays a significant role for David, who also takes part in monthly readings with a visiting priest. Besides religion, he enjoys arts and crafts and values the opportunity to consult with therapists during distress.

The statue includes depictions of actual students from decades ago and, according to Benedick, embodies the school’s mission – providing services within a faith-based environment. “That statue is up front speaking to every visitor about the mission,” she stated. For the attendees, it symbolizes compassion, which Benedick believes is crucial for their daily experience.

Janice Neumann is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.