Thursday, April 21, 2005

Concrete Vision of Virgin Mary?

People are flocking to the concrete wall to see for themselves. Some stared and others pulled out their cameras. Believers say it shows the Virgin Mary with her hands folded in prayer.
Some of the visitors pray themselves. "To me I think it's a vision of the Virgin Mary. For me I can actually feel it in my body," said Genny Ronan, believes image is Virgin Mary. "I saw a reflection of the Virgin Mary. Yes, it is real," said Nicky Bell, believes image is Virgin Mary. To others it's something caused by road salt or maybe just a water stain. "I don't know about water stain. I really couldn't say," said Jean Osilich, non-believer. Over night, in different lighting, the image was a bit easier to see. For those who believe it's as clear as a photograph, faith fills in the empty spaces. "I had to pull over because the Virgin Mary is on the wall. She's on the wall and I was curious and at the same time kind of scared, wondering why she's there and what's her reason for being there," said Annette Byrd, believer. To some people this is a shrine but to the Illinois Department of Transportation it's a problem. The mysterious image is located at an accident investigation site for crashes on the Kennedy. At first it was thought the image would have to be removed so the people would leave. But not now, now the image stays and so do the believers. "I am drawn to the crucifix which is hanging from her hands and it's coming down the middle there. And I'm seeing a rosary which is a powerful prayer in our church," said Frank DePaul, believes he sees a rosary. Police have blocked off the area to vehicles but getting in and out is still dangerous for pedestrians.