An original 1964 shrine of Our Lady of Fatima at Indian Lake in Russells Point, Ohio, destroyed by a tornado two years ago, is in the process of being replaced.
“It was a great loss to the Indian Lake community, but there is good news: A new shrine is being built right now,” said Bill Quatman, president of the Lima-based shrine owner, The American Society of Ephesus, Inc.
The Our Lady of Fatima Shrine served as one of the tallest statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the United States.
The shrine, located at 261 Chase Ave., Russells Point, Ohio, was damaged beyond repair by a March 2024 tornado, occurring prior to a planned 60th anniversary celebration.
Dedicated in August 1964, the 43-foot monument included a rotating 19-foot by 6-foot fiberglass statue on a pedestal. It featured fountains, music and lighting. The new shrine will be approximately the same height.
The organization plans to include a stainless steel time capsule inside the shrine’s cornerstone to open in 100 years. Faithful are invited to submit items for the capsule through Wednesday, April 15.
The American Society of Ephesus, Inc. will include letters, photographs, articles and artifacts pertaining to the shrine from the community.
“What would you like your great-grandchildren to read from you in 100 years? What are your memories of the lake and the shrine? Do you have a photo or other item that you want to include?” Quatman reflected.
Letters can be submitted to Amy Bihn at abihn.mqa@gmail.com to be printed for the time capsule.
Original letters, photos, booklets or artifacts should be sent to Bihn, care of St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church, P.O. Box 329, 464 Madison Ave., Russells Point, Ohio 43348.
St. Mary of the Woods parish, founded in 1927, is located near Indian Lake in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Nearly 100 years old, the parish aims to foster spiritual growth among its parishioners through Scripture, the sacraments and use of each person’s gifts.
To drop off items for the time capsule, the church office is open Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The shrine owner reserves the right to exclude any item deemed inappropriate for a religious shrine. No items submitted will be returned to the donors, and no compensation will be provided.
The American Society of Ephesus, Inc. is a non-profit private foundation formed in 1955. Its mission is to promote a greater realization and appreciation of the teachings and wonders of God, to preserve and erect religious shrines, and to restore and preserve burial grounds of religious leaders. For more information, visit www.ase-gbqfoundation.org.