A statue of the Virgin Mary was reportedly seen weeping during Easter celebrations in Colombia, an event that took place just days before the death of Pope Francis was confirmed by the Vatican. The statue, located in the town of Aguas Claras in the Norte de Santander department, was filmed during the Good Friday festivities as part of Holy Week observances.
The phenomenon occurred during the traditional Sermon of the Seven Words at St John Eudes Parish. This sermon reflects on seven sayings attributed to Jesus Christ during his crucifixion, as recounted in the New Testament. Attendees and many viewers of the viral video footage, which circulated widely on social media, were struck by what appeared to be tears running down the Virgin Mary statue’s cheeks.
Local residents described the event as a miracle, expressing varied interpretations of its significance. Comments on social media included sentiments such as, "It's a sign that God doesn't like human evil, and that's why our mother cries in silence," and, "The Virgin of Sorrows feels the pain, that's why she cries." Others simply marvelled at the occurrence, with one viewer stating, "It's a miracle, how beautiful."
Shortly after the statue's weeping came to public attention, the Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88. The Pope passed away on Easter Monday, 21 April 2025, at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta within the Vatican. A Vatican spokesman issued a statement expressing sorrow: "At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church."
The statement highlighted Pope Francis’s commitment to living the values of the Gospel with "fidelity, courage, and universal love," with particular emphasis on his advocacy for "the poorest and most marginalised." The Vatican concluded by commending his soul to the "infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."
As preparations begin for the selection of a new Pope, official responses from local religious authorities regarding the Virgin Mary statue’s apparent tears remain pending. Notably, the Diocese in the nearby town of Ocana has yet to issue any formal comment on the incident.
The connection between the statue’s weeping and the death of Pope Francis has been a subject of speculation among observers, though no official correlation has been established. The event and subsequent news of the Pope’s passing have together attracted widespread attention across religious and social media channels.
Source: Noah Wire Services