'Weeping' Virgin Mary statue stuns crowds in California: 'It's a miracle'

By Douglas Ernst - The Washington Times - Tuesday, May 10, 2016

A Virgin Mary statue in California is drawing crowds and media attention for its inexplicable “weeping,” which started 18 months ago.

Maria Cardenas of Fresno has opened up her home to anyone who wants to see the statue. The Virgin Mary’s right eye has watered since the murder of her cousin, Jessie Lopez.

“We’ve had priests come from all over to look at her, and all they say is that it’s a miracle. We’re not hiding her, but at the same time we don’t want anything to happen to her,” the statue’s caretaker told a local ABC affiliate. The man asked to remain anonymous for his interview.

Reporter Joe Ybarra confirmed the phenomenon after speaking with Mrs. Cardenas and one of her visitors on Monday.

“You can see one [tear] building up there right underneath the chin,” Ybarra said during a live broadcast. “The people who live here say the door is open to anyone. They just don’t want to give their address out. If you do get an invitation, then you’re welcome to come inside.”

Richard Quintana, a neighbor, said he came just to see the statue with his own eyes.

“That’s amazing. It takes the words out of my mouth,” Mr. Quintana said.

Ms. Cardenas told the station her statue will sometimes stop watering for weeks or months at a time. She received it as a Mother’s Day gift 10 years ago.