Overview
- The St. Susanna Parish display replaces Mary, Joseph, and Jesus with a sign reading “ICE was here,” which also states “The Holy Family is safe in our Church” and lists a local immigration hotline.
- The Archdiocese of Boston called the tableau “divisive political messaging,” said the parish lacked permission, and urged the manger be restored to its sacred purpose.
- Father Stephen Josoma says the installation is religious art meant to confront viewers with the moral stakes of immigration enforcement, noting prior issue-focused Nativity scenes at the parish.
- Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons condemned the message as politicized rhetoric and defended agents, while a DHS spokeswoman rejected claims of family separation practices.
- Similar installations drew national attention at Lake Street Church in Evanston, where figures labeled ICE stand behind a zip-tied baby Jesus, and clergy report both strong support and abusive messages.