What started as a simple idea—to bring home a small Marian statue from each country we visited—quickly turned into a lifelong mission. Over the past 60+ years and 22 countries, we’ve amassed a collection of over 100 Marian relics, each with its own story. Here’s how it all happened.
The First Relic: A Serendipitous Beginning
It all began in 1958, when Geraldine received a beautiful hand-carved statue of Our Lady of Lourdes from a family friend. At the time, we had no idea that this small act of generosity would spark a global journey.
The Unexpected Finds
Sometimes, we knew exactly where to look for Marian artifacts—church bookstores, religious shops, and famous pilgrimage sites. But some of our best finds came unexpectedly.
- In Tanzania, we discovered a black Madonna carved from ebony, crafted in the likeness of the local people.
- In Czech Republic, we found a stunning crystal Madonna—a reflection of the country’s famous glasswork.
- In Puerto Rico, we stumbled upon “Santos”—hand-carved wooden figures of Mary, created in a folk-art style unique to the island.
Chasing Marian Relics Across Continents
We weren’t just collecting statues—we were uncovering stories. Some items were easy to find, while others felt almost like divine interventions.
One unforgettable experience was in Budapest, Hungary, where we struggled to find a Marian statue. Just as we were about to give up, a kind stranger overheard our conversation and personally took us to a store on the other side of the city that had exactly what we needed.
And then there were the sacred places where we collected blessed relics—from Lourdes’ healing water to small vials of earth from Marian apparition sites. Each piece carries the history, prayers, and devotion of those who came before us.
A Collection with a Purpose
Our collection is more than just objects—it’s a visual representation of how Mary is honored in different cultures. Each relic tells a story of faith, history, and devotion.
As we continue our journey, we hope to keep sharing these treasures with others, helping to deepen the love and understanding of Mary, Mother of God around the world.
Have you ever collected religious relics or Marian artifacts? What’s your most special find?