A California ski resort planning to erect a 20-foot statue of the Virgin Mary has some locals snow-blind with outrage.
Ski Park Mt. Shasta at McCloud will build a platform for the statue atop Douglas Butte this season and build the Virgin Mary by summer, the resort announced on Facebook.
The statue was “very important” to owner Robin Merlo and her late husband, Ray, according to the post.
“This statue is a promise kept and a true reflection of the dedication to the family we value so much here at the Ski Park,” Mero said in the statement.
“The goal is not to focus on any one religion but to recognize and honor the beauty and spiritual strength of the mountains we love so much.”
However, many locals did not share the same sentiment, saying the statue of the Virgin Mary would offend non-Christians.
Ski Park Mt. Shasta in McCloud, California, plans to erect a 20-foot statue of the Virgin Mary on one of its slopes. Mount Shasta Ski Park/Facebook Many local residents are outraged by the installation of the statue and nearly 1,700 people have signed a petition to stop its construction. Change.org
A petition, which has almost 1,700 signatures, aims to stop the construction of the statue.
“Many of us have been skiing at our beloved local ski park on Mount Shasta since childhood. It has always been a place of joy, unity, and natural beauty. However, recent efforts to erect religious statues threaten to disrupt this cherished environment,” wrote petition creator Joe Skibum.
“The religious icon under construction threatens to alienate members of our diverse community who do not share the same religious beliefs.”
Joe Skibum, who created the petition, said people already “appreciate the natural beauty and spirituality” on the Douglas slopes “without disturbing religious icons disturbing the environment.” Mount Shasta Ski Park/Facebook
Skibum went on to say people already “appreciate the natural beauty and spirituality” on the Douglas slopes “without the intrusive religious icon that disturbs the environment.”
Other critics chimed in on social media posts of Mt. Shasta, especially after comments were closed on a post announcing plans for a statue of the Virgin Mary, with some urging the park to honor the Native Americans who once called the mountain home.
“Perhaps erecting a statue shows respect for the indigenous people who were killed by the religion that was there long before you all owned the mountain,” wrote one person on Instagram.
“Given the area’s deep Native American history and long mysterious Lemurian beliefs, it would be a shame to add this statue!! If you want a Christian remembrance for your late husband, put a plaque in the inn.”
Another simply said, “Keep religion out of skiing.”
Skibum and others have asked the ski park to stop construction of religious monuments.
The Post contacted the Ski Park of Mt. Shasta for reviews.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
