In Dedham, Massachusetts, a Nativity scene outside a church is causing quite a stir. Baby Jesus lies in a manger, swaddled in a silver emergency blanket and secured with zip ties. Nearby, Mary wears a plastic gas mask, while Roman soldiers in tactical vests stand guard, labeled “ICE.” It’s a striking scene that raises eyebrows and sparks conversation.
Just west in Evanston, Illinois, a church sign reads, “Due to ICE activity in our community, the Holy Family is in hiding.” Hundreds of miles apart, these displays share a common theme: the representation of the Holy Family as refugees, reflecting real fears about separation and deportation faced by many today.
These artistic interpretations of the Christmas story aim to highlight immigration issues. Supporters argue they bring important social realities into the spotlight. Some even cite the Bible to justify these displays. Others feel these depictions are sacrilegious and distract from spiritual worship, calling into question the churches’ tax-exempt status.
Rev. Michael Woolf from Lake Street Church believes art like this engages the community in meaningful dialogue. He has used similar displays in the past to comment on various issues, including war in Gaza. “We want to evoke emotion and challenge the status quo,” he said. This year, Baby Jesus in his church symbolizes the plight of families fearing ICE raids, resonating with parishioners who live in anxiety.
In September alone, immigration enforcement in states like Illinois and Massachusetts resulted in over 2,000 arrests, further intensifying community fears. The response has prompted local leaders to investigate how these actions affect the mental health of residents and the fabric of their neighborhoods.
While opinions differ, one common thread is the desire for connection and empathy. Many view these changes as a modern portrayal of an age-old story. By depicting Jesus’ family as refugees, churches invite congregations to reflect on contemporary struggles. Past protests against ICE, such as a 2018 display where baby Jesus was caged, sought to bring attention to family separations at the border.
Phil Mandeville, from St. Susanna’s Parish, emphasizes that the display isn’t just a stunt. His church has been actively helping refugee families since 2019, aiding in housing and employment. “It’s about human beings, not just holiday decorations,” he explained. The spirit of Christmas, he argues, should align with compassion and support for the vulnerable.
Critics of the displays often feel the message is lost on them. Jillian Westerfield from a neighboring church stated that some struggle with the challenging realities the art presents. “People need to engage with these issues rather than dismiss them,” she said.
The response to these displays underlines a broader cultural divide. Reactions are mixed, ranging from support to outright rejection. Some patrons protesting outside churches argue that spiritual messages should stay clear of political agendas. Others, however, advocate that silence in the face of injustice contradicts the teachings of Jesus.
“We must consider how Jesus would act in today’s world,” said Steve Grieger, a former teacher who traveled to support the church. He believes ignoring the context of these Nativity scenes misses their core message: that the struggles highlighted are vital and relevant today.
As churches continue to address contemporary issues through familiar narratives, they challenge us all to think critically about faith, community, and the concept of sanctuary. In a time of heightened tensions around immigration, these powerful displays serve not just as artistic expressions but as calls for empathy and solidarity.
