Church Nativity Scenes Spark Immigration Debate
Amidst the festive season, churches across the U.S. are transforming traditional Nativity scenes into thought-provoking displays addressing immigration issues. These unconventional portrayals of Christ’s birth aim to comment on the contemporary challenges faced by immigrant families under federal enforcement policies.
At the Lake Street Church in Evanston, Illinois, a baby Jesus is depicted in a manger with wrists zip-tied, while Mary wears a gas mask, and Roman soldiers are labeled “ICE.” A nearby sign in another Chicago suburb, close to an ICE facility, reads, “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.” Meanwhile, St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts, replaced the Christ child with a sign stating, “ICE was here.”
These displays have ignited both praise and criticism. Supporters argue they bring the ancient story into a modern context, highlighting the fears of deportation faced by many. Critics, however, accuse these churches of politicizing sacred imagery, with some even calling for the loss of their tax-exempt status. In Massachusetts, the archdiocese demanded the restoration of the manger to its “proper sacred purpose.”
“A grave scandal for Catholics”
Rev. Michael Woolf of the Lake Street Church explained that Christmas offers a chance to make public art that speaks to current issues. In previous years, the church’s Nativity scenes have addressed topics like peace in Gaza and climate change. However, Boston Archbishop Richard Henning ordered the removal of this year’s display at St. Susanna Parish, which had previously depicted Jesus in a cage to protest family separations at the border.
“The people of God have the right to expect genuine opportunities for prayer and Catholic worship — not divisive political messaging,” a diocesan spokesperson stated. Some Catholic activists are demanding disciplinary actions against the priests involved, citing a “grave scandal” for Catholics and potential consequences for the parish.
The community’s reality
Jillian Westerfield, associate minister at the United Methodist church in Evanston, emphasized that the displays aim to evoke emotion and dialogue about the real anxieties faced by parishioners due to immigration enforcement. In Illinois, the effects of these enforcement actions have been traumatic, impacting children and prompting local investigations.
Despite damage to some of the figures in the displays, the churches remain committed to their message. “Joseph didn’t make it,” read a sign at one scene after the figure was damaged, symbolizing the victims of immigration enforcement.
“Not a stunt”
Phil Mandeville of St. Susanna’s Parish Council insists that the displays are genuine expressions of concern for refugees, not mere stunts. The parish has supported several refugee families since 2019, working alongside the federal government to help them integrate into American society. “We care more about individuals than a manger scene,” Mandeville stated, emphasizing the importance of addressing human needs over traditional displays.
Divided reaction
Reactions to these Nativity scenes are mixed. Some, like Walter Niland, believe churches should focus on spiritual matters rather than political issues. Others, such as Steve Grieger, feel that these displays align with the teachings of Jesus, especially given the current socio-political climate.
In Evanston, volunteers from a nearby synagogue have even stepped in to ensure the safety of churchgoers during services. The debate continues as communities grapple with the intersection of faith and politics in a divided nation.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
