ORLANDO, Fla. – A local church plans to erect a controversial statue named "Jesus the Homeless" in downtown Orlando.
The statue will go up outside the First Presbyterian Church of Orlando at the corner of Jackson Street and Rosalind Avenue.
"It's quite stunning and it draws attention, people pause, it's life-size," said the Rev. David Swanson. "You could easily mistake that for a homeless person on a park bench."
The bronze life-sized statue depicts a man sleeping on a park bench covered in a blanket, shrouded under a blanket. The faceless figure is nameless until it's given a second look. Crucifixion marks can be seen on the bare feet.
"Definitely a double-take," said Lizz Pippenger. "I think it's a very strong message that they have the right to say."
The artwork "Jesus the Homeless" is the creation of sculptor Tim Schmalz and will come with controversy. It will put Orlando in a very small group of cities around the world. The pope has blessed it, while some places have shunned it. Some have complained it does not represent their view of Jesus.
Swanson disagrees.
"It's Matthew 25, that, 'When you did it to the least of these, you've done it to me.' It should be a reminder to people that we've done a lot in our city that has improved our lives, things that entertain us, but what have we done for the least among us," said Swanson, whose work with the Commission on Homelessness made his downtown church a perfect fit for the statue -- and the cause. "Per capita-wise, Orlando has one of the highest homeless populations."
Swanson estimated there are roughly 900 homeless people downtown and another 600 in the woods nearby.
The church spent $40,000 in donations to bring the statue here in April. The money came from one church member who wanted a way to honor his late daughter. The pastor thinks this way, people who see it will be encouraged to help the homeless.
"I think this will have significant impact on the lives of people who see it," said Swanson.