Feb 29, 2008 12:33 am US/Pacific
Mary Statue Stolen From Carmichael Church
CARMICHAEL (CBS13) ―
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Small alcove at St. John's Church in Carmichael where, until recently, a statue of Mary stood.
CBS
A religious statue was stolen from a church. But just when church leaders thought it was gone forever, a good Samaritan came forward and has volunteered to replace the missing tribute to Mary.
Earlier today we told you about a church that was targeted and a religious symbol stolen, it hasn't been returned, but something has happened to make you have faith in people.
Her holy status or a Plexiglas shield did not protect her. The five-foot-tall , 150 pound statue of Mary stood in the courtyard between St. John's Church and a Catholic school.
A smaller version of the statue is nearby. It didn't take a miracle to make the statue to disappear, just evil actions. With the renovations going on at the convent nearby, the fact that the statue was missing may have gone on for days, maybe even weeks.
"Someone said to me 'what happened to the statue?' And I says, 'what do you mean? Isn't it over there?'"
If the statue is returned, Father Thomas is willing to turn the other cheek and not press charges.
"Think about it. Bring it home if you have a conscience," said Father Bland.
But this story is not over.
"Well I was appalled when it was stolen."
This 5th grade teacher Joanne Gifford realized the statue was gone when she saw our camera. She says she'll replace the statue as a dedication to a son she lost two years ago.
"To me, whenever I go by it, I'll think of him," said Gifford. "And I'll hope that everybody who goes by says a little prayer for him."
This is not the first time this happened. A few years ago someone stole a statue of Mary from the same spot. But for now, at least, this chapter will have a happy ending.
And the father says that if someone wants to return they can leave it outside of the church. No questions asked.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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