If you’ve ever driven North on I-75 through Monroe, Ohio, you know the feeling. One minute you're just cruising past cornfields and typical suburban sprawl, and the next, you’re staring at a massive religious landmark that’s impossible to ignore. This isn't just any roadside attraction. It’s a site that has survived fire, lightning, and more internet memes than most celebrities.
Most people call it the statue of Jesus in Ohio, but its history is a lot more "electric" than a simple stone monument.
From "Butter Jesus" to a Literal Firestorm
The story doesn't start with the statue you see today. Back in 2004, Solid Rock Church—a megachurch led by the late Lawrence Bishop—unveiled a 62-foot-tall bust of Jesus. This original version was officially titled "King of Kings," but the public had other ideas.
Because the statue featured Jesus from the waist up with his arms raised high towards the sky, locals immediately dubbed it "Touchdown Jesus." It was a nickname that stuck instantly. Some people found it inspiring; others thought it was a bit tacky. Then there were the folks who called it "Big Butter Jesus" because of its creamy, yellowish complexion. Comedian Heywood Banks even wrote a catchy folk song about it. Honestly, it became a cultural phenomenon that defined that stretch of highway between Dayton and Cincinnati.
The Night the Sky Fell
Everything changed on the night of June 14, 2010.
A massive thunderstorm rolled through Butler County. A single, powerful bolt of lightning struck the statue. Because the original "Touchdown Jesus" was made of a highly flammable combination of Styrofoam and fiberglass over a steel frame, it didn't just break—it ignited.
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The fire was intense. Witnesses described flames reaching 100 feet into the air. By the time the fire department got it under control, the iconic figure was gone. All that remained was a charred, skeletal metal frame standing over the pond.
You’d think that would be the end of it. But the church had other plans.
The Resurrection: Introducing Lux Mundi
In the wake of the fire, the church's digital sign famously read: "He'll be back." They weren't kidding. By 2012, a new figure rose from the ashes. This one was different—different artist, different material, and definitely a different vibe.
This replacement is officially named "Lux Mundi," which is Latin for "Light of the World." It was designed by sculptor Tom Tsuchiya, who is actually well-known for creating the bronze statues of Cincinnati Reds legends at Great American Ball Park.
Why Lux Mundi Looks Different
- Material: Learning from the past, the church used fire-rated polymer composites and a robust steel substructure.
- The Pose: Instead of the "touchdown" gesture, this Jesus is full-bodied and appears to be stepping forward with open arms.
- Lightning Safety: It now features a sophisticated lightning suppression system. Basically, it’s built to survive the next big storm.
- Height: It stands at 52 feet, slightly shorter than its predecessor but arguably more imposing because of the full-body design.
Naturally, the internet didn't take long to come up with new nicknames. Some people call it "Hug Me Jesus." Others, referencing the outstretched hands, went with "Five Dollar Footlong Jesus." Ohioans have a weird sense of humor, but most of it comes from a place of genuine affection for a landmark that makes a boring drive a bit more interesting.
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Why This Statue Matters to Travelers
You don't have to be a member of Solid Rock Church to appreciate the scale of the statue of Jesus in Ohio. It is one of the most photographed roadside sights in the Midwest.
When you see it in person, the scale is actually pretty dizzying. It faces the highway, acting as a silent sentinel for the thousands of cars that pass by every hour. The base is decorated with rocks and a water feature that creates a cascading effect into the pond below. It’s a peaceful spot, despite being located right next to one of the busiest interstates in America.
There were critics, of course. Some argued the $250,000 to $750,000 spent on the statues should have gone to charity. The church countered by stating the statue serves as a symbol of hope and a reminder of faith for travelers who might be going through a hard time.
A Few Nuanced Details
It's worth noting that the original "Touchdown Jesus" was actually featured on an episode of the MTV show Rob and Big. Rob Dyrdek, who grew up in nearby Kettering, wanted to show his friend the local legend. It’s those kinds of weird pop-culture intersections that make the site more than just a piece of church property. It’s a piece of Ohio's identity.
Also, if you're planning to stop, the church grounds are generally open, but keep in mind it’s a place of worship. Sunday mornings are busy, so if you're just looking for a photo op, a Tuesday afternoon is usually your best bet.
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Planning Your Visit to the Landmark
If you want to see the statue of Jesus in Ohio for yourself, here is how you do it without getting lost or missing the best view.
Location and Logistics:
The statue is located at 900 Union Rd, Monroe, OH 45050. It is situated on the East side of I-75. If you are driving North from Cincinnati, it will be on your right. If you are heading South from Dayton, it’s on your left.
The Best View:
While you can see it clearly from the highway, the best way to experience it is to take the Monroe exit (Exit 29) and head toward the church. There is a large parking lot where you can safely get out and look.
Nearby Attractions:
If you're making a day trip of it, the Cincinnati Premium Outlets are right across the street. You can literally see the statue from the food court. Traders World and Treasure Aisles, two of the largest flea markets in the state, are also just a couple of exits away.
Practical Next Steps
- Check the weather: The statue looks best at sunset when the light hits the composite material, but avoid being there during severe lightning—just in case history decides to repeat itself.
- Bring a zoom lens: If you want a clear shot of the face or the detail in the hands, a standard phone camera might struggle from the parking lot.
- Respect the space: Remember that this is an active church. While they welcome visitors, try to be mindful of any services or events happening at the amphitheater.
The "statue of Jesus in Ohio" has become a symbol of resilience. It’s a monument that was literally forged in fire and rebuilt by a community that refused to let a lightning strike have the final word. Whether you see it as a religious icon or just a quirky piece of Americana, it’s a must-see for anyone traversing the heart of the Buckeye State.