Key Takeaways
- Churches in the United States are using Nativity scenes to comment on federal immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, portraying the Holy Family as refugees to reflect on the fear of separation and deportation.
- The displays have drawn both praise and outrage, with some critics calling them sacrilegious and politically divisive, and others seeing them as a necessary commentary on the current state of immigration in the country.
- The controversy highlights the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement in the United States, with some arguing that the displays are a necessary call to action, while others see them as an abuse of sacred imagery.
Introduction to the Controversy
A doll representing the baby Jesus is zip-tied in the Nativity scene outside of Lake Street Church of Evanston, a stark reimagining of Christ’s birth that is drawing praise and outrage. The scene, which includes Mary wearing a plastic gas mask and flanked by Roman soldiers in tactical vests labeled "ICE," is one of several Nativity displays across the United States that are using the traditional Christmas tableau to comment on federal immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. The displays are portraying the Holy Family as refugees, reflecting on the fear of separation and deportation that many families, including their own parishioners, are experiencing today.
The Purpose of the Displays
The creators of the displays say they are placing the ancient story in a contemporary frame, using the Bible to reflect on the current state of immigration in the country. They argue that the displays are a necessary commentary on the fear and anxiety that many families are experiencing, and that they are a call to action for those who are concerned about the treatment of immigrants and refugees. For example, the display at St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts, features a hand-painted sign that says "ICE was here," and the parishioners have locked baby Jesus in a cage in previous years to protest the separation of families at the border.
Reaction to the Displays
The displays have drawn a divided reaction, with some critics calling them sacrilegious and politically divisive, and others seeing them as a necessary commentary on the current state of immigration in the country. The archdiocese in Massachusetts ordered that the manger must be "restored to its proper sacred purpose," and some Catholic activists want the priest punished for creating the display. However, others have come out in support of the displays, arguing that they are a necessary call to action and a reflection of the values of the Bible. For example, volunteers from a nearby synagogue stood outside during Lake Street’s services to help worshippers feel safe, and some individuals have driven long distances to show their support for the displays.
The Community’s Reality
The displays are also a reflection of the reality that many communities are experiencing, with federal immigration enforcement intensifying in states and cities whose leaders object to the immigration crackdown. In September alone, a combined total of at least 2,000 people were arrested in Illinois and Massachusetts, according to federal arrest figures released by immigration authorities. The displays are a way for churches to speak out against the treatment of immigrants and refugees, and to call attention to the fear and anxiety that many families are experiencing. For example, the display at Lake Street Church in Evanston, Illinois, features a sign that says "Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding," and the parishioners have put up an explanatory sign that says "Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror."
The Role of the Church
The controversy highlights the ongoing debate over the role of the church in commenting on social and political issues. Some argue that the church should stick to spiritual matters, and avoid commenting on politics or current events. However, others argue that the church has a moral obligation to speak out on issues of justice and compassion, and that the displays are a necessary call to action. For example, Phil Mandeville, who sits on St. Susanna’s Parish Council, said that the parish is resolute about keeping the display, and that it is a reflection of the values of the Bible. He argued that the church should be a place where people can come to pray and worship, but also to engage in dialogue and discussion about the issues of the day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the controversy over the Nativity displays highlights the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement in the United States, and the role of the church in commenting on social and political issues. While some critics have called the displays sacrilegious and politically divisive, others see them as a necessary commentary on the current state of immigration in the country. The displays are a reflection of the reality that many communities are experiencing, and a call to action for those who are concerned about the treatment of immigrants and refugees. As the debate continues, it is clear that the displays will remain a source of controversy and discussion, and a reflection of the values and principles of the Bible.