Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary survives devastating wildfires near Spokane
The image has become a sign of hope as Spokane Bishop Thomas Daly calls the faithful to remain grounded in Christ and accompany those facing tremendous loss.
Amid what has been described as the most destructive wildfire event in Washington state history, a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary was found standing untouched among the devastation near Spokane, according to reports.
The statue was discovered Aug. 3 in a neighborhood devastated by the Old Trails Fire, the largest of three wildfires burning around Spokane. The fires began Aug. 1 and have burned more than 10,000 acres, forcing about 65,000 people to evacuate, according to KREM2, a CBS affiliate.
Spokane Bishop Thomas Daly and his diocesan team discovered the statue while assessing the damage in neighborhoods affected by the fires, according to The Pillar.
The outlet said the diocese shared the photo on its Facebook page where it quickly went viral, with the caption: “The fires may consume homes and forests, but it cannot consume faith, hope, or the love that binds a community together.”
Bishop Daly released a statement Aug. 3 asking for prayers for all those affected by the wildfires and encouraging the faithful to seek refuge in the Lord.
“As a diocesan family,” he wrote, “let us be people of hope. Even amid tragedy and uncertainty, Christ remains with us. May He bring comfort to those who are suffering, strength to those serving on the front lines, and peace to every anxious heart.”
Bishop Daly also reflected on the devastation in a recent interview with The Pillar.
“The reality is that this is a very difficult time,” he said. “It’s devastating. But Christ is with us, and he’s calling us to reach out of ourselves for people.”
According to the Spokesman Review, authorities arrested 37-year-old Aaron Farinacci Aug. 3 on suspicion of first degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire. The outlet reported it remains an ongoing investigation.
