The St Michael Statue stands tall. It’s a powerful figure crafted from fired and glazed clay. This isn’t just any statue. It’s a symbol of faith hope and protection. Specifically for the police officers of Washington DC.
The St Michael Statue resides at St Mary Mother of God Church. The church is near many important buildings. These include the DC and federal court buildings. The National Law Enforcement Museum is also nearby. So is the National Police Memorial and DC Metropolitan Police Department headquarters. The St Michael Statue’s location is no accident. It’s a deliberate act of honoring those who serve and protect the city.
The St Michael Statue wasn’t easy to create. Sculptor Bethany Lee a parishioner of St Mary Mother of God encountered challenges. She’s a stone carver but chose ceramic for the St Michael Statue. Ceramic was less expensive and faster. However two of the initial pieces cracked during the firing process. Only one survived. This setback delayed the unveiling. The St Michael Statue’s unveiling was originally planned for September 29 the feast of St Michael. However due to the delays September 28 became the new date.
The St Michael Statue is more than just a beautiful work of art. It embodies a profound message. St Michael is viewed as a defender of God’s people against sin. He’s a powerful symbol of protection and strength. This is particularly relevant to the police officers. They face dangers and challenges daily. The St Michael Statue serves as a reminder of their important role. It also offers a silent prayer for their safety and well-being.
Msgr Salvatore Criscuolo a longtime chaplain of the Metropolitan Police Department shared a poignant anecdote. He spoke of police officers asking him to bless their St Michael medals. This happened after significant events. These included a 1994 shooting the September 11 2001 terrorist attacks and the January 6 2021 attack on the US Capitol. The officers’ request revealed their deep faith and their reliance on St Michael for protection. The St Michael Statue stands as a powerful testament to that faith. It’s a reminder of the spiritual strength needed to face adversity. It’s a beacon of hope in the heart of Washington DC. The St Michael Statue is a symbol that resonates deeply with the city’s protectors and its people.