WASHINGTON — The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has once again been targeted by vandals. This time, a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the north lawn of the basilica grounds, located in an area known as Mary’s Garden, suffered severe damage.
At approximately 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 15, a visitor engaged in praying the Rosary in the garden discovered the desecrated statue. The individual immediately alerted the basilica staff, prompting a swift inspection. The findings were heartrending: it appeared that the Blessed Mother’s face was deliberately struck with a hammer, and the surrounding light fixtures, meant to illuminate the path for visitors, were shattered.
According to Msgr. Walter Rossi, rector of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, this act of vandalism seems to have occurred shortly before its discovery, given the routine checks performed by the security staff.
This vandalism echoes a disturbing pattern of disrespect towards religious symbols at the national shrine. Msgr. Rossi recalled in a statement a similar incident on Dec. 5, 2021, when the statue of Our Lady of Fatima, an image of the Virgin Mary located in the Rosary Walk and Garden across Harewood Avenue from the basilica, was also vandalized. These repeated acts of desecration have not only marred the physical beauty of the shrine but have also attempted to strike at the spiritual heart of those who find solace and peace within its grounds.
The vandalized statue
The statue, “Mary, Protector of the Faith” by sculptor Jon-Joseph Russo, depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the child Jesus. According to the basilica’s website, it was erected in 2000 in honor of Bishop Thomas J. Grady, the fifth director of the national shrine, who oversaw the construction of the Great Upper Church.
Despite the unsettling nature of these events, Msgr. Rossi expressed concern and compassion not only for the sanctity of the shrine but also for the individuals responsible for such acts. “While this act of vandalism is very unfortunate, I am more concerned about the individuals who perpetrate such activity and pray for their healing,” stated Msgr. Rossi.
The basilica is the largest Roman Catholic church in North America and one of the 10 largest churches in the world. The basilica welcomes nearly one million visitors annually.
The investigation into the vandalism is ongoing, with the shrine’s security team working closely with the Metropolitan Police Department to bring those responsible to justice. Sources tell Our Sunday Visitor that the incident is being investigated as a hate crime. The Metropolitan Police Department has not yet returned Our Sunday Visitor’s request for comment.
