A California couple who lost their home in the Los Angeles wildfires said they found hope in the survival of two statues on their property, a statue of the Virgin Mary and a statue of Joseph. Peter and Jackie Halpin had lived in the home for 37 years, but fled last week with only a few belongings as flames from the Eaton Fire invaded the property. When they returned, all of their property was reduced to ashes except for two statues.
A video circulating on social media shows the couple standing with their children singing the Catholic hymn Regina Caeli.
“When we got there we all just stood around and it was amazing how charred everything was, but the statue of the Virgin Mary and another statue of St. Joseph were perfect. They were in good condition – obviously they were a little charred,'' Peter Halpin said. fox news.
“And we decided to take that opportunity to pray.”
The Halbin home is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, he said.
“We prayed to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and then sang a special song to Our Lady that the whole family has known for decades,” he said of Regina Caeli. “This was amazing. Our intention was never that this would go viral. It was pretty much just a family thing, but the response from the community has been incredible. It was very heartfelt.”
View this post on Instagram
The day before the family returned to the property, one of the children visited the scene and took photos. That's when the couple learned that the statue had survived.
“When I saw that, I fell to my knees, not in prayer, but in emotion,” she told Fox News. “And then I thought: We must Please get up there. We must thank God that we spent so many years there. ”
The Halpin family raised their children on the property. They have three boys, three girls, and 14 grandchildren.
clock: Mary statue survived California wildfires in 'perfect condition'
Photo provided by: © Instagram/Nicole Titman / YouTube/fox news
michael faust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His articles have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, Christian Post, Leaf Chronicle, Toronto Star, and Knoxville News Sentinel.
Listen to Michael's podcast! he is the host of crosswalk talka podcast where he speaks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christians are making their faith a priority in Hollywood, and discover the best Christian movies, books, TV and other entertainment. can be found crosswalk talk above LifeAudio.comor subscribe at apple or spotify So never miss an interview that is sure to encourage your faith.
First publication date is January 13, 2025.
