Virgin Mary statue filmed blinking inside US church — believers call it a modern miracle

Worshippers at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Canton, Ohio, was left astonished when a statue of the Virgin Mary seemed to blink during its visit on August 2, 2024. The National Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima, touring worldwide since 1968, drew attention as attendees spotted its eyes seemingly close and then reopened. The unusual incident rapidly became the focus of conversations among visitors, sparking debates over whether it was a miraculous sign or a trick of illusion.

What was the Witness Reaction?

Katie Moran, who spotted the moment on her phone, explained the experience:

“I took it and thought, 'that's really nice'. I took one more to be sure and when I looked at it, the eyes were closed I (went), 'wow!”

Another witness, Connie Liptak, cited her amazement:

“I knew it was a miracle because I'd been looking at her all morning. They're really closed. I mean, you can really see her lashes are down.”

For many attendees, the moment reinforced their faith, while others watched it with skepticism and curiosity.

Historical Significance of the Statue

The statue has a deep historical and spiritual importance. Blessed by Pope Paul VI in 1967, it has been connected to reports of healing and miraculous happenings throughout its travels. Katie Moran, who helps oversee the statue, cited that visitors have claimed cures from critical ailments such as cancer and infertility when in its presence. She highlighted the role of faith in influencing such events, saying:

"For those who believe, no proof is necessary. For those who don't, no proof is possible. It's faith and I believe."

This perspective emphasizes the subjective nature of miraculous claims, where belief often shapes perception and interpretation making it highly subjective.

While many interpret the blinking as a sign of divine intervention, skeptics cited alternative descriptions. Factors such as lighting conditions, camera angles, or even digital effects could make the illusion of movement. The Catholic Church has historically approached such events with caution, requiring careful investigation before officially acknowledging them as miraculous.

FAQs:

1. Where is the statue located?
The statue is at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Canton, Ohio. Visitors come from nearby areas to see it.

2. What statue is being discussed?
It is the National Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima. The statue has been touring internationally since 1968.