Controversy Surrounds "ICE Was Here" Nativity Scene in Dedham

The nativity scene displayed outside St. Susanna's Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts, has sparked significant controversy since its installation shortly after Thanksgiving 2023. The display features a sign reading "ICE was here," suggesting that Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are absent due to detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. This provocative representation aims to critique U.S. immigration policies and has drawn attention for its political implications.

Boston Archbishop Addresses Priest on Controversial “ICE Was Here” Nativity Scene

Archbishop Richard Henning of Boston is scheduled to meet with Father Stephen Josoma, the priest of St. Susanna's Parish, in January 2024 to discuss the nativity scene. Henning expressed his intention to listen to Josoma's perspective during their meeting, stating, "He was the one that asked to speak with me. I’d like to hear him first." This meeting follows a phone conversation between the two on Christmas Eve, although details of that discussion remain undisclosed.

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The Archdiocese of Boston has publicly criticized the nativity scene, asserting that it should be removed. A spokesperson emphasized that churchgoers expect genuine opportunities for prayer rather than divisive political messaging, stating, "The Church's norms prohibit the use of sacred objects for any purpose other than the devotion of God's people." In a similar vein, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons condemned the display as "abhorrent," claiming it promotes a "dangerous and extremist narrative."

Boston Archbishop Addresses Priest on Controversial “ICE Was Here” Nativity Scene

Despite the backlash, Father Josoma has defended the nativity scene, indicating that he would not remove it until after his meeting with the Archbishop. During a press conference on December 8, a small group of parishioners gathered to support Josoma, with one member, Rich Donovan, asserting that the church's message of inclusivity—"all are welcome"—is crucial in light of the current political climate.

The Republican (Masslive.com)

The display has faced criticism not only from church authorities but also from various community members who believe that the nativity scene misuses religious symbols for political purposes. The Archdiocese's insistence on removing the scene reflects broader tensions within the Catholic Church regarding the intersection of faith and contemporary social issues.

Boston Archbishop Addresses Priest on Controversial “ICE Was Here” Nativity Scene

The upcoming meeting between Archbishop Henning and Father Josoma is anticipated to address the future of the nativity scene and the underlying issues it represents. The outcome of this discussion may influence how similar displays are approached in the future, both within St. Susanna's Parish and across other religious institutions.

Boston Archbishop Addresses Priest on Controversial “ICE Was Here” Nativity Scene

• “My first thing will be just to hear him out and listen,” — Archbishop Richard Henning

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• “our hope was to create dialogue around contemporary life.” — Father Stephen Josoma

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• “The people of God have the right to expect that, when they come to church, they will encounter genuine opportunities for prayer and Catholic worship-not divisive political messaging,” — Archdiocese of Boston Statement

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• “dangerous and extremist narrative.” — Todd Lyons, ICE Acting Director

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