Overview
- A St. Joseph Catholic School float in Hanover’s Halloween parade displayed a replica of the Auschwitz entrance with the words “Arbeit Macht Frei.”
- Bishop Timothy C. Senior issued a formal apology, called the display a notorious symbol of hate, and noted the approved design did not include the Holocaust imagery.
- The diocese says it will partner with the Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition and the Anti-Defamation League to provide education and strengthen oversight.
- Float designer Galen S. Shelly apologized, said he had no ill intent, and explained he added the arch after a last‑minute design change intended to suggest a cemetery entrance.
- Metcalf Cleaning LLC, which towed the float, apologized for not recognizing the phrase’s significance, while the school and parade organizers have not provided substantive public responses as local outrage continues.