DELTA—Retired statues of Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus have been restored to a place in the spotlight at Sacred Heart Parish in Ladner.
The statues were once part of Bible-themed displays at Fantasy Garden World, the Richmond amusement park and garden with a faux castle, courtyard, and an iconic windmill that drew many filmmakers (episodes of Stargate and Supernatural were filmed there) and countless tourists.
The park was torn down in 2010 and its statues of the Holy Family and others were packed away by former park owner and B.C. Premier Bill Vander Zalm – until now.
“When it’s all lit up, it’s beautiful,” said parishioner Gus Getz, who built a stable for the figures just outside the chapel and parish office. “There’s a light shining on Christ Jesus and the star is lit up and it’s impressive in the night.”
Getz and fellow parishioner Fred Hermosura set up the Nativity scene with the help of Vander Zalm and his wife, Lillian. Along with the Holy Family, it includes two cherubs, a star, trees, and lights donated by the Vander Zalms.
Father Francis Galvan, OSA, is happy with the new display. He said the former Fantasy Garden World owners (and long time parishioners) donated the figures to the church two years ago but “this is the first time this is displayed at the church.”
