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Churches Use Nativity Scenes to Protest Trump’s Immigration Policies

12/13/2025

Summary

Churches Protest Immigration

Churches across the U.S. protest U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policies with nativity scenes.
In Evanston, Illinois, Lake Street Church features baby Jesus with zip-tied wrists and Mary in a gas mask.
In Dedham, Massachusetts, St. Susanna Parish displays 'ICE was here,' replacing the Holy Family.
The Archdiocese of Boston and ICE have criticized the displays.
Pastors say displays reflect refugee experience and provoke dialogue on immigration enforcement.

Summary

Church Challenges Immigration

Missiongathering Church in Charlotte, North Carolina installed a nativity scene with masked ICE agents beside the Holy Family.
Pastor Andrew Shipley aims to disturb viewers and prompt reflection on immigrant fear from enforcement actions.
The installation, by an artist collective, parallels the Holy Family fleeing violence.
Shipley says the display challenges Christmas as comfort and calls for justice.
Since unveiling, the church has faced mixed reactions of support and backlash.

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Churches Protest Immigration

Churches across the U.S. protest U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policies with nativity scenes.
In Evanston, Illinois, Lake Street Church features baby Jesus with zip-tied wrists and Mary in a gas mask.
In Dedham, Massachusetts, St. Susanna Parish displays 'ICE was here,' replacing the Holy Family.
The Archdiocese of Boston and ICE have criticized the displays.
Pastors say displays reflect refugee experience and provoke dialogue on immigration enforcement.

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