Las Cruces Diocese Seeks to Shield 29‑Foot Christ Statue from Border Wall Construction

The Catholic diocese in Las Cruces, New Mexico, is fighting to preserve a 29‑foot statue of Jesus. The statue sits on a mountain that has drawn pilgrims for almost a hundred years. Officials argue that the proposed border wall would damage the sacred site. They claim religious‑freedom protections should prevent the wall’s encroachment. The dispute highlights a clash between immigration security and cultural heritage. Federal planners have not yet finalized the wall’s exact route in the area. The diocese is preparing legal and public‑relations strategies to protect the monument. Observers note the case could set precedents for future infrastructure projects near religious sites.