Dedham, Massachusetts, December 25, 2025
A nativity scene at St. Susanna Parish in Dedham featuring a sign reading ‘ICE WAS HERE’ in place of the Holy Family has generated both support and criticism. This display, viewed as a protest against immigration policies, has prompted the Archbishop of Boston to meet with the parish priest after the holidays to address the situation. The scene, intended to provoke thought and discussion about societal issues, will remain until after the meeting.
Dedham
The Archbishop of Boston is scheduled to meet with a Dedham priest after the holidays to address the ongoing presence of a controversial nativity scene at St. Susanna Parish. The display, which features a sign reading “ICE WAS HERE” in place of the Holy Family, has sparked considerable discussion within the community and the wider Archdiocese.
The nativity scene, located outside St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts, has drawn attention for its stark message. Rather than traditional figures, a hand-painted sign proclaiming “ICE WAS HERE” occupies the center, accompanied by another sign stating, “The Holy Family is missing.” This arrangement is intended as a poignant act of protest, reflecting concerns regarding immigration policies and their human impact.
Context of the Controversial Display
The parish priest has indicated that the display will remain in place pending his conversation with Archbishop Richard Henning. This decision follows prior calls from the Archdiocese of Boston, which had previously requested the removal of the sign and display. Archbishop Henning had specifically ordered the removal of this year’s controversial scene. The steadfastness in maintaining the display underscores a deep conviction regarding the message it conveys.
The scene has elicited varied reactions, prompting both support and criticism. Parishioners in other regions, such as New Jersey, have also encountered similar thought-provoking displays at their churches, indicating a broader, evolving discussion within Catholic communities about the role of faith in social commentary. The use of nativity scenes to engage with contemporary issues is not without precedent, but the directness of the “ICE was here” message has brought it into sharp relief.
This forthcoming meeting between the Archbishop and the Dedham priest represents a moment for careful consideration and dialogue. It brings into focus the delicate balance between ecclesiastical guidance and the pastoral impulse to bear witness to perceived societal injustices, all while navigating the varied sensibilities of a diverse congregation. The events in Dedham invite reflection on the enduring human stories that lie at the heart of such profound communal expressions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is scheduled to meet regarding the controversial nativity scene?
A: The Archbishop of Boston is scheduled to meet with a Dedham priest after the holidays to discuss the controversial nativity scene.
Q: Where is the controversial nativity scene located?
A: The controversial nativity scene is located at St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts.
Q: What is the primary message conveyed by the nativity scene?
A: The nativity scene features a sign reading “ICE WAS HERE” in place of the Holy Family, with an additional sign stating, “The Holy Family is missing,” understood as a protest against immigration policies.
Q: What was the Archdiocese of Boston’s stance on the nativity scene prior to the scheduled meeting?
A: The Archdiocese of Boston had previously called for the sign and display to be removed, and Archbishop Richard Henning had ordered this year’s removal.
Q: Will the nativity scene remain in place until the meeting occurs?
A: Yes, the priest intends for the scene to remain until he can speak with the Archbishop of Boston.
Key Features of the “ICE was here” Nativity Scene Controversy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts |
| Core Message | “ICE WAS HERE” sign replacing the Holy Family, stating “The Holy Family is missing,” interpreted as a protest against immigration policies. |
| Key Parties Involved | Archbishop of Boston (Richard Henning), Dedham priest, Archdiocese of Boston, St. Susanna Parish congregation. |
| Current Status of Scene | Remains in place pending a scheduled meeting between the Archbishop and the priest. |
| Archdiocese’s Prior Stance | Called for the removal of the sign and display, with an order from Archbishop Henning for its removal. |
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Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
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