Stolen Virgin Mary Statue Returned to South Milwaukee Church

In August 2023, a 5-foot statue of the Virgin Mary was stolen from Divine Mercy Parish in South Milwaukee. The statue, weighing several hundred pounds, went missing for over a year, leaving the church community in uncertainty about its fate. Recently, police received an anonymous tip that led them to a storage locker in Milwaukee, where the statue was found. An 18-year-old suspect confessed to the theft and guided officers to the location of the statue. Although the statue has been recovered, no charges have been filed against the individual yet. The church's Director of Worship, Amanda Decker, expressed relief at the statue's return, noting that the community had been left in the dark regarding its whereabouts. In the interim, a replacement statue was donated and secured outside the church to fill the void left by the original. This replacement was bolted to the ground, symbolizing the community's resilience and commitment to their faith despite the loss. The original statue, however, requires some repairs before it can be displayed again. Plans are in place to place the restored statue inside the church, allowing the congregation to reconnect with this significant symbol of their faith. The return of the statue is a moment of joy for the parish, marking the end of a long period of uncertainty and loss. This incident highlights the importance of community and faith in overcoming challenges. The church's response to the theft and the eventual recovery of the statue demonstrate the strength of the parish community and their dedication to preserving their religious heritage.