Keeping Vigil in Boston

Massachusetts Catholics gathered to pray after arson tarnished a statue of the Blessed Mother.

Faithful held a vigil Wednesday at St. Peter Parish in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston. 

Late Saturday night, an unknown arsonist set fire to plastic flowers in the statue's hands.

Photos suggest the figure got a thorough cleaning before Wednesday's event.

Catholics gathered around the statue of Mother Mary to sing hymns and pray the Rosary.

Exclusive photos sent to Church Militant show a number of consecrated religious were present.

The statue of Mary dates back to the end of World War II — welcoming soldiers who returned to the neighborhood after the war.

At Wednesday's vigil, the pastor — Fr. John Currie — had this to say to the anonymous arsonists: "We love you, we forgive you and we are here to serve and help you in any way you may need."

Officials in Boston are continuing to investigate the crime.

This comes as left-wing agitators around the country topple statues of historical figures. 

Catholic saints' statues have come under fire — including St. Louis' monument to King Louis IX of France and statues of St. Junípero Serra in San Francisco and Ventura, California. But faithful Catholics are pushing back with prayerful protests, vigils and processions.