Radio legend Kevin Matthews joined Chicago’s Morning Answer with Amy Jacobson and Jim Iuorio to share the powerful story behind his spiritual journey and the remarkable ministry that grew out of a damaged statue of the Virgin Mary he found next to a dumpster.
Matthews, a former Chicago radio personality known for his sharp wit and beloved characters, opened up about how a chance encounter with the discarded statue changed the course of his life. At the time, Matthews described himself as culturally Catholic but spiritually distant. When he spotted the statue—broken in half, covered in garbage, and partially buried in mud—he felt compelled to rescue it. The statue, later named “Broken Mary,” became a deeply symbolic reminder of how even the broken are loved by God.
Instead of restoring the statue to perfect condition, Matthews chose to leave it visibly damaged, explaining that it resonated with his own life and the pain many others carry. With guidance from his priest and a growing connection to his faith, Matthews began speaking at churches, telling his story and offering Broken Mary to those in need of comfort. The statue soon became a traveling symbol of healing, visiting hospices, hospitals, homes, and prisons. “She belongs to the broken,” Matthews said. “And we’re all broken, but we’re all loved by God.”
That message became the foundation for his first book, Broken Mary: A Journey of Hope. Due to overwhelming response and countless letters from those impacted by the statue’s journey, Matthews wrote a follow-up, Mary’s Roadie, chronicling the miracles and encounters from his travels with the statue. He explained that the new book includes photographs to document some of the extraordinary stories—such as a man whose liver began healing on its own after immersing himself in prayer, and a grieving mother who found peace after the loss of her son.
Matthews emphasized that the statue itself isn’t magical—it’s a representation of the Virgin Mary, who he says leads people back to God. “She is everyone’s mother, whether you believe it or not,” he said. “And she wants to bring you home.”
Despite concerns about declining church attendance and growing secularism, Matthews said he sees signs of spiritual renewal. He believes that personal, emotional stories—like those connected to Broken Mary—have the power to draw people back to faith. “Everyone has a chance to return to Him and be forgiven,” he said. “It’s never too late.”
In addition to his books, Matthews is the subject of a forthcoming documentary produced by ODB Films, slated for theatrical release in October. The film will trace Matthews’ career, his encounter with Broken Mary, and the impact the ministry has had on people across the world. “It’s not about me,” he said. “It’s about the message: we’re all broken, but we’re loved by God.”
The segment closed with some lighter moments as Matthews brought out his famous radio character “Jimmy Schwarz,” delivering a few fiery takes on Chicago sports and poking fun at Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. But even in jest, Matthews returned to his core message—gratitude, humility, and faith. “This world doesn’t scare me anymore,” he said. “I know who’s responsible for my life.”
Matthews’ books Broken Mary: A Journey of Hope and Mary’s Roadie are available online, and more information about his ministry—including booking information for speaking engagements—is available at brokenmary.com.