Archdiocese Orders Removal of Criticized Nativity Display

The Archdiocese of Boston has instructed a Catholic church in Dedham, Massachusetts, to dismantle a Nativity display that critiques the current immigration policies. Church officials, however, are hesitating to follow through with this directive.

At St. Susanna Parish, a sign over the empty Nativity scene read “ICE Was Here,” suggesting that the Biblical figures were being apprehended. Additionally, there was a sign promoting a phone number for reporting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity.

Father Stephen Josoma explained that the installation aimed to protest the unfair treatment of immigrants within the community. He maintained, “While not everyone agrees with our message, it doesn’t render our display blasphemous or scandalous to the faithful.” He continued, noting that the discord is a reflection of a polarized society largely influenced by the “changing and unjust policies and laws” of the current U.S. administration.

Despite these sentiments, the Archdiocese insisted on the removal, referencing its canon laws against the political usage of sacred symbols. It stated, “When God’s people come to church, they have a right to genuine opportunities for prayer and worship, not divisive political messages.” They further clarified that the parish did not seek permission to make such alterations to the display.

Josoma expressed a desire to meet with Archbishop Richard Henning before deciding on compliance with the order.

Parishioner Jeannie Conany shared her confusion over the Archdiocese’s stance, citing statements from senior Catholic leaders that have criticized the president’s immigration policies. “The pope condemned ICE. The American bishops condemned ICE. I don’t see why the archdiocese would object,” she remarked.

This isn’t the first time the church has used Nativity scenes to protest immigration policies. In 2018, the display featured baby Jesus placed in a cage, with the wise men staged behind a wall. Josoma at that time remarked that he was not opposed to the Trump administration, framing it as part of his “evangelical work.”

Another church in Illinois has similarly depicted baby Jesus with zip ties and an officer representing ICE, although such portrayals are absent in the biblical narrative of the manger in Bethlehem.

Pastor Michael Wolff from Lake Street Church in Evanston stated, “How we treat our neighbors is very important. As you read in the Gospels, how you treat your neighbors is how you treat Jesus.”