Nativity Scenes Spark Controversy Over Immigration Enforcement

In recent weeks, several churches across the United States have installed Nativity scenes that reinterpret the traditional Christmas story to comment on the ongoing immigration enforcement actions under the Trump administration. Notably, the Missiongathering Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, features a display where U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, depicted in tactical gear, approach the Holy Family with handcuffs. Pastor Andrew Shipley stated that the installation aims to provoke reflection on the fear experienced by immigrant families in the wake of recent raids, asserting, “If the Holy Family had been in Charlotte two weeks ago, they would have been putting the baby Jesus in handcuffs because he wouldn’t have his papers.”

Fox News (website)Fox News (website)WUNC - NPR - Chapel HillCNNThe GuardianNPR

Similarly, the Lake Street Church in Evanston, Illinois, showcases baby Jesus wrapped in a foil blanket with zip-tied wrists, while Mary wears a gas mask. This display, along with others, seeks to draw parallels between the Biblical narrative and the plight of modern asylum seekers, as emphasized by Andrew McGowan, president of Yale’s Berkeley Divinity School, who noted that Mary and Joseph were refugees fleeing King Herod's edict.

CNN

The artistic choices have elicited mixed reactions. Supporters argue that these displays reflect the realities faced by many in their communities, while critics label them as sacrilegious and politically divisive. The Archdiocese of Boston has called for the removal of a similar display at St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts, which replaces the Holy Family with a sign reading “ICE Was Here.” Father Steve Josoma, the parish priest, defended the display, stating that it is intended to evoke dialogue about the current immigration crisis.

NPR

Critics, including Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, have condemned these Nativity scenes as dangerous and misleading, claiming they contribute to a hostile environment for law enforcement. Lyons stated that such portrayals do not reflect the reality of ICE operations, which do not involve the treatment depicted in the Nativity scenes.

Fox News (website)

The controversy surrounding these Nativity displays highlights the intersection of faith, politics, and community activism. Many churches involved in these artistic expressions have been active in supporting local immigrant communities, providing resources and advocacy. For instance, the Lake Street Church has participated in protests against ICE raids and has received threats following media coverage of their Nativity scene.

NPR

Pastor Scott Suskovic of Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte emphasized the need for a balanced approach to immigration, advocating for compassion towards immigrants while respecting the law. He stated, “We want to love the stranger among us... and at the same time we want to support the laws of the land.”

CNN

The ongoing debate reflects a broader societal divide regarding immigration policy and the role of faith in political discourse. While some congregations continue to use their Nativity scenes as platforms for social commentary, others argue for a separation of political messaging from religious observance. As the Christmas season progresses, these displays are likely to remain focal points for discussions about immigration, faith, and community values.

CNN

• “It’s supposed to be disturbing because what’s happening in our city is disturbing – what’s happening in cities all over the country is disturbing,” — Pastor Andrew Shipley, Missiongathering Church

CNN

• “The parallel being made here is not just that ICE shows up to anybody’s home … it’s specifically the idea of the Holy Family themselves being refugees,” — Andrew McGowan, President of Yale’s Berkeley Divinity School

CNN

The controversy surrounding these Nativity scenes underscores the complexities of addressing contemporary issues through the lens of traditional religious narratives, prompting ongoing dialogue within and beyond faith communities.

CNN