Dedham church keeps anti-ICE nativity scene, defying diocese leaders

"The display, outside St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts, includes the traditional shepherds, sheep and wise men gathered around a hay-filled manger. But Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus are missing, replaced by a sign reading "ICE WAS HERE" in bold blue letters. "The Holy Family is safe in the Sanctuary of our Church," adds a smaller note inside the Nativity scene, which is protected by a plastic shield. "If you see ICE please call LUCE.""

"Speaking to reporters late Monday outside the brick church, the Rev. Stephen Josoma said the intent of the display was "evoke dialogue," not cause a furor. He said parish leaders would confer with leaders of the archdiocese before making a final decision on its fate. But, he added, "that some do not agree with our display does not render it sacrilegious.""

St. Susanna Parish in Dedham displayed a Nativity scene missing Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, replaced by a sign reading "ICE WAS HERE" and a note stating "The Holy Family is safe in the Sanctuary of our Church." The display includes shepherds, sheep, wise men, a plastic shield and a phone number for LUCE, an immigrant advocacy group that tracks ICE activity. ICE began a major enforcement campaign in the Boston area in September. The Catholic Archdiocese of Boston ordered removal of the signage, citing norms against using sacred objects for political messaging. Rev. Stephen Josoma said the intent was to evoke dialogue and that parish leaders would consult the archdiocese.

Read at Boston.com