Efforts to Preserve a Cherished Statue

A yearly May crowning ceremony takes place in front of the Blessed Mother statue at St. Coletta’s of Illinois in Tinley Park. This event lifts the spirits of both children and adults attending the school, which serves individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Heather Benedick, CEO of the nonprofit, describes the ceremony: “We have Mass and process out, and everyone carries flowers, placing them at her feet and a crown of flowers on her head.” The priest conveys comforting messages about Mary, and attendees are reminded of these when they look at the statue.

Benedick explains the statue’s history, noting it spent nearly 40 years at the St. Coletta’s Palos campus before moving to Tinley Park in 2001. Unfortunately, the statue is deteriorating due to weather exposure. Although built for outdoor placement, the soft marble shows signs of wear, such as puckering and discoloration, though these are less noticeable from afar.

Benedick, who has been with the school for 24 years, initially as a clinical therapist, describes the statue as “very striking.”

The nonprofit aims to build a protective structure to safeguard the statue, but the cost ranges from $50,000 to $80,000. They seek donations from the community, alumni, and friends through their website or by calling 708-342-5200. Restoring the statue itself could surpass $100,000, so prevention is the focus.

The envisioned structure would stand about three feet off the ground with supportive posts and a roof. This shelter would also protect offerings, such as prayer cards left by visitors at the statue site near the school’s entrance.

David J., a long-time attendee, supports the preservation efforts. “I want to see it restored, to see it weatherproof, so it doesn’t get so bad,” he says. Faith holds significance for him, as he engages in monthly readings when a priest visits, and enjoys arts and crafts.

The statue also features representations of past students, symbolizing the mission of St. Coletta’s. Benedick emphasizes the mission’s consistency over 76 years, focusing on providing services in a faith-based environment.

“For them, the statue is a reflection of compassion,” Benedick notes. “I think it’s important they feel that every day.”