2010 lightning destroys Monroe's "Touchdown Jesus" statue, prompting replacement with "Hug Me Jesus" using fire-resistant materials.

14 years after lightning destroyed Monroe's "Touchdown Jesus" statue, the Solid Rock Church's replacement, "Hug Me Jesus" (or "Lux Mundi"), features fire-resistant materials to prevent a repeat of the 2010 damage. The original statue, known as "King of Kings," had nicknames such as "Big J," "Big Butter Jesus," and "Super Jesus." Joel Smith of Dayton believes the statue exemplifies the freedom of expression in America.

June 15, 2024
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