Mt. Shasta Ski Park’s plans for Virgin Mary statue draws ire

A California ski resort’s plans to erect a 20-foot statue of the Virgin Mary has some locals snowblind with rage.

Mt. Shasta Ski Park in McCloud will build the platform for the effigy atop its Douglas Butte this season and construct the Virgin Mary by summer, the resort announced on Facebook.

The statue was “very important” to owner Robin Merlo and her late husband, Ray, according to the post.

“This statue is a promise fulfilled and a true representation of the dedication to family that we all value so much here at the Ski Park,” Mero said in the statement.

“The goal is not to focus on any one religion but to acknowledge and honor the beauty and spiritual power of the mountain we all love so much.”

However, many locals do not share the same sentiments, saying the Virgin Mary statue will offend those who are not Christian.

A petition, which has nearly 1,700 signatures, aims to stop the statue’s construction.

“Many of us have been skiing at our beloved local ski park in Mount Shasta since childhood. It has always been a place of joy, unity, and natural beauty. However, recent efforts to erect a religious statue threaten to disrupt this cherished environment,” petition creator Joe Skibum wrote.

“The religious icon currently under construction threatens to alienate members of our diverse community who do not share the same religious beliefs.”

Skibum went on to say people already “appreciate the natural beauty and spirituality” on top of the Douglas slope “without intrusive religious icons disturbing the environment.”

Other critics took to Mt. Shasta’s social media posts, especially after comments were shut off on the posts announcing plans for the Virgin Mary statue, with several urging the park to honor the Native Americans who once called the mountain home.

“Maybe erect a statue showing respect to the native folks killed by religion who were there long before y’all owned the mountain,” one wrote on Instagram.

“Given the deep Native American history to that area and the long mysterious Lemurian beliefs, it would be a shame to add this statue!! If you want a Christian remembrance for your late husband, place a plaque at the lodge.”

Another simply said, “Keep religion out of skiing.”

Skibum and others have asked the ski park to stop the construction of the religious monument.

The Post has reached out to Mt. Shasta Ski Park for comment.