More than two years after an EF-3 tornado destroyed the original Our Lady of Fatima Shrine at Indian Lake, the community gathered Friday evening to dedicate a new shrine at the historic site.
The Indian Lake Harbor was filled with people Friday night as residents, community leaders and visitors came together to celebrate the return of the landmark.
Russells Point Mayor Jason Huffman addressed the crowd during the celebration, while many members of the Quatman family shared memories and stories of the original shrine and what it meant to the Indian Lake community.
The dedication comes after the March 14, 2024 tornado destroyed the original shrine, which had been dedicated in 1964.
The original site featured a 43-foot structure topped by a 19-foot fiberglass statue of the Virgin Mary, one of the tallest statues of its kind in the United States.
The statue was blown into Indian Lake during the tornado and remained missing for more than two weeks before a local volunteer dive team recovered it about 150 feet offshore.
Rather than simply rebuild the original shrine, the American Society of Ephesus, which owns the property, held a statewide design competition for a new landmark that would honor the site’s history while looking toward the future.
The new shrine features a welcoming statue of Mary with open arms, three bronze statues representing the Fatima children, a Rosary Walk, and informational displays with QR codes.
A cornerstone also contains a time capsule that is scheduled to be opened in 100 years.
Artist and creator Urbana’s Mike Major talks about the shrine:
Several pieces from the original shrine were preserved, including two benches and the kneeler.
Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman was also on hand for Friday night’s dedication.
The Ohio House of Representatives presented a special recognition honoring the shrine and its place in the history and culture of Indian Lake.
The resolution recognized the American Society of Ephesus, St. Mary of the Woods Parish, and the many community members and organizations that helped make the new shrine possible.
Friday night’s dedication marked another milestone in Indian Lake’s recovery from the 2024 tornado and the community’s effort to preserve an important local landmark.
The annual Feast of the Assumption Mass will be celebrated at the shrine Saturday at 5 p.m. by Archbishop Robert G. Casey, followed by a free cookie and punch reception.
The public is welcome to attend.
Parking is not available at the shrine.
Visitors should park at St. Mary of the Woods Church at 464 Madison Avenue in Russells Point, where free shuttle service is available.
