A Massachusetts Catholic church is under scrutiny after replacing its Nativity figures with an empty manger and a sign reading “ICE was here,” a display federal officials and the Boston Archdiocese say politicizes a sacred Christian tradition. The Nativity at St. Susanna Parish in Dedham drew national attention after parish staff added the sign along with contact information for a local immigration-monitoring group. Critics say the display weaponizes the Christmas story to push a political message.
Interim ICE Director Todd Lyons condemned the installation, calling it “absolutely abhorrent” and warning that misleading narratives about federal law-enforcement endanger officers. Lyons noted that assaults on ICE personnel have risen more than 1,150%, a trend he argues is fueled by rhetoric painting immigration enforcement as immoral rather than lawful. He stressed that ICE does not target churches and that the display distorts the agency’s mission.
The Boston Archdiocese also demanded the Nativity be removed, stating the display violated Church guidelines and turned a sacred space into a platform for political activism. Church officials reiterated that Nativity scenes are meant to direct the faithful toward worship of Christ, not contemporary political debate. Catholic leaders in the region said the display was divisive, disrespectful, and inappropriate for the Advent season.
Pastor Stephen Josoma defended the decision, describing the scene as “religious art” intended to spark reflection about how society would treat the Holy Family today. Supporters framed it as a statement about compassion toward migrants. However, critics argue that equating immigration enforcement with a threat to Christ Himself crosses a line, especially inside a church entrusted with upholding Christian teaching rather than partisan messaging.
The controversy highlights a broader cultural battle over whether churches should host political displays. For many believers, the empty manger overshadowed the Gospel message at the center of Christmas. The debate now places renewed pressure on faith leaders to safeguard sacred traditions while navigating increasingly polarized political landscapes.
