Over the years, Father Zawadzki had to overcome the reluctance of some church leaders and local officials who raised safety concerns.

WSJ: Poland's Big Statue of Jesus Draws Pilgrims, Though Rivals Belittle It

Construction on the steel, fiberglass and concrete structure was completed in fits and starts, as Father Zawadzki, a priest at a nearby church, sought donations to keep the project going.

WSJ: Poland's Big Statue of Jesus Draws Pilgrims, Though Rivals Belittle It

Sylwester Zawadzki, is a symbol of kitschy excess.

WSJ: Poland's Big Statue of Jesus Draws Pilgrims, Though Rivals Belittle It