When Cardinal Brennan High School closed its doors in June 2007, at the end of the 2006-2007 school year, the Allentown Diocese removed many of the school's items to preserve them. The Blessed Virgin Mary Statue was one of the most notable artifacts that was relocated.
The Immaculate Heart Academy in Ashland, Pennsylvania was founded in 1927 and later became a co-ed school in 1952. In 1968, it was renamed Cardinal Brennan High School after it merged with Shenandoah Catholic High School. From 1927 to 2007, the Blessed Virgin Mary Statue stood at the entrance of the school’s property.
Several months ago, the Allentown Diocese reached out St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Ashland and asked if they were interested in taking care of the statue.
On August 17th, 2018, the statue was moved back to Ashland and it now stands on the steps of the former Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) convent next to the St. Charles Borromeo Parish Center in the 1100 block of Walnut Street.
Many in the area are happy to see the statue return to the area, including Cardinal Brennan alumni.
Jill Bensinger, a 1995 Cardinal Brennan graduate said, “High school is one of the biggest parts of your life, with the biggest impact on your memories. Every time you entered the gates of Cardinal Brennan the Blessed Mother welcomed you.”
Bensinger added, “I’m thankful that She remained in our county, where we could visit that piece of our hearts.”
Bryan Smolock, a 1999 Cardinal Brennan graduate stated, “it’s good to see something positive happen, and this is an amazing tribute to a school that shouldn’t be forgotten.”
If anyone is interested in contributing toward the expenses accrued by bringing the statue home and a planned paint restoration, please contact the Parish Office at (570) 875-1521. In addition, contributions can also be given through weekend collection baskets, or be dropped off at the Parish Office located at 1115 Walnut Street, Ashland.
An announcement had been made within the church that a dedication would take place October 6th, 2018, but due to the recent weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances, an official dedication will take place in the Spring of 2019.