The Rev. Keith Mozingo of Founders Metropolitan Community Church in Los Feliz is grappling with a Christmas dilemma as the baby Jesus atop his politically charged Nativity scene was stolen. Mozingo, known for using Nativity displays to comment on current affairs, had set up a scene outside the church featuring statues of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph on a rubble pile with a sign highlighting global conflicts. Despite the theft, Mozingo finds humor in the situation and vows to chain down a replacement Jesus to prevent a recurrence.
Photo from KSAT
Stolen Symbol of Peace
The stolen baby Jesus from Mozingo’s Nativity scene has left the pastor and his community disheartened, as the missing symbol of peace disrupts their Christmas display.
Mozingo, expressing frustration on Facebook, humorously asked for prayers, emphasizing the unusual predicament of “Jesus getting kidnapped” during the holiday season.
Motivated by his commitment to humanitarian values, Mozingo has a history of using Nativity scenes to draw attention to social issues, turning the theft into a reflection of broader concerns.
READ ALSO: Sr. Pastor Keith Mozingo reacts to stolen baby Jesus
A Tradition of Social Commentary
This isn’t the first time Mozingo has incorporated political messages into his Nativity scenes. In previous years, he used the display to highlight immigration issues, detaining the Holy Family in cages, and challenged gender norms with unconventional portrayals of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
Despite criticisms that his displays are political, Mozingo asserts that they represent a humanitarian voice, aiming to provoke thoughtful reflection on societal challenges.
Anticipating the return of the stolen Jesus, Mozingo, with a touch of humor, reveals that a replacement has been ordered from eBay and will be secured to the display to prevent future thefts.
READ ALSO: Baby Jesus figure stolen from war-themed nativity scene at a Los Feliz church
