A 20-foot Virgin Mary statue, dubbed “Our Lady of Mt. Shasta,” has been installed on the slopes of Mount Shasta, California’s largest ski resort north of Lake Tahoe. The statue was erected by the ski park’s owners, the Merlo family, and is a fulfillment of the late patriarch Ray Merlo’s vision. However, the installation has been met with opposition from some in the community, who argue that the statue is an unwelcome addition to the mountain and may be seen as an intrusion by non-Christians.
Some critics of the statue have launched a Change.org petition, which has gained over 3,300 signatures. The petition argues that the statue will “threaten to disrupt this cherished environment” and “alienate members of our diverse community who do not share the same religious beliefs.” Others have expressed concerns about the environmental impact of the statue, as well as the cultural and historical significance of the mountain to indigenous peoples.
Not everyone is opposed to the statue, however. Some have praised its placement, calling it a “personal” project of the late Ray Merlo and his wife Robin. Traci Roberti, a lifelong skier, has said that the statue can be seen as a symbol of respect for the mountain and its spiritual significance, and that it is possible for people of different faiths to coexist and respect one another’s religious beliefs.
Mount Shasta has a long history of spiritual significance, dating back to the myths and legends of indigenous peoples such as the Modoc, Wintu, Shasta, AjumawiAtsuwegi, Karuk, and Klamath. The mountain has also been associated with spiritual movements and New Age ideologies, and has been the subject of numerous books and writings. The ski resort itself has a history of philanthropy and community involvement, and has sought to promote “faith, kindness, love, and peace on earth” through its activities.
The debate surrounding the Virgin Mary statue is a complex one, with different perspectives on issues of faith, culture, and the natural environment. While some see the statue as a respectful tribute to the late Ray Merlo and a symbol of community, others see it as an unwelcome intrusion and a threat to the mountain’s natural beauty. For now, the Change.org petition remains online, a reminder of the ongoing debate over the future of Mount Shasta and its place in the hearts and imaginations of its visitors.