This controversy has shocked many Christians.
A Christmas Nativity scene at a Massachusetts church has ignited a major backlash after the pastor replaced the traditional display with an anti-ICE political message — prompting a strong response from federal immigration authorities and the Catholic Church.
The controversy centers on a sign reading “ICE was here” placed inside the manger at St. Susanna Parish in Dedham. The sign mirrored activist talking points and promoted a group that monitors immigration enforcement throughout Massachusetts.
ICE Director: This Is Fueling Attacks on Law Enforcement
ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons condemned the display, warning that these types of political stunts put law enforcement in danger.
Lyons told Fox News Digital:
“The actions of the activist reverend are absolutely abhorrent and add to a dangerous narrative responsible for a more than 1,150% increase in assaults on ICE officers.”
He said the Nativity stunt disrespects both the Catholic faith and the federal officers who risk their lives every day protecting American communities.
Lyons also noted that many ICE employees in Massachusetts are practicing Catholics and first-generation Americans, making the display especially offensive.
Archdiocese of Boston: Remove the Political Display Immediately
The Catholic Church stepped in as well.
Terrence Donilon, spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Boston, called the display “divisive political messaging” and said it violated church norms.
His statement emphasized:
- Parishioners should not encounter political propaganda at church
- Sacred objects cannot be repurposed for activism
- St. Susanna Parish never requested permission for the stunt
Donilon made the Archdiocese’s expectation clear: The display should be removed and the manger restored to its sacred purpose.
Activist Pastor Defends His Actions
Rev. Stephen Josoma, known for using Nativity scenes to push progressive causes, defended the stunt as “religious art” intended to provoke a reaction.
He admitted the purpose was to stir emotions and spark political reflection, telling Fox News:
“It’s supposed to move people. If this evokes a strong reaction, maybe that’s something people should look at.”
Josoma has a long history of using Christmas displays to criticize conservative policies. In 2018, during President Trump’s first term, he placed the Baby Jesus figurine inside a cage, attempting to make a statement on immigration detention.
A Growing Trend of Politicized Nativity Scenes
St. Susanna Parish is not alone. Churches aligned with the political Left have increasingly turned Nativity scenes into visual protests:
- A church in Illinois zip-tied Baby Jesus’ hands
- Mary and Joseph were shown wearing gas masks
- The display was used to attack ICE and border security policies
These displays have been widely criticized as disrespectful to Christian tradition and inappropriate for sacred spaces.
Why This Story Is Resonating With Americans
At a time when border security is one of the most important issues for voters — especially older Americans — this incident underscores a deeper national divide:
- Should churches stay out of politics?
- Should religious displays be used to attack law enforcement?
- Is the Left intentionally targeting Christian traditions to push immigration activism?
For many Americans, especially those of faith, the message from ICE and the Archdiocese is clear:
Churches are meant for worship — not political propaganda.