When parishioners at St. Susanna Parish in Dedham gathered for Advent this year, they were met by a nativity scene without figurines of baby Jesus, Mary or Joseph.

Instead, a stark message on white paper was pinned at the manger’s center: “ICE was here.”

Below the warning was a smaller sign, which read, “The Holy Family is safe in our Church ... If you see ICE please call LUCE at 617-370-5023.”

It’s the latest in a series of Christmas displays from the Dedham church that, for nearly a decade, have reflected current events and social issues — from climate change and mass shootings, to immigration and now ICE — sparking debate and national attention year after year.

But now, the pastor of the church is under fire. In 2017, the Rev. Stephen Josoma said he didn’t worry about backlash becau

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