The highest court in Massachusetts has halted a city’s plan to erect two large statues of Catholic saints at a new public safety headquarters, arguing that such installations may improperly indicate governmental support for one religion.
Legal Ruling: The ruling, dated August 20, upheld an earlier court decision from October 2025 that temporarily blocked Quincy from installing 10-foot statues of St. Michael the Archangel, patron saint of police officers, and St. Florian, patron saint of firefighters.
The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, representing the city of Quincy, expressed disappointment with the ruling but indicated the legal battle is continuing.
Joe Davis, senior counsel at Becket and lead attorney for Quincy, stated to Fox News Digital, “Quincy chose these statues to honor the courage and sacrifice of its firefighters and police. The city should not have to hide public art simply because some people may think of religion when they see it.”
The controversy arose following reports by The Patriot Ledger that Quincy planned the statue installations outside its new public safety headquarters. The statues were crafted in Italy and selected by Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch.
Court Documents and Criticism: According to court documents, Koch selected the statues to “honor, inspire and encourage our First Responders,” aiming to elevate morale and support lifesaving work. Critics of the plan raised constitutional concerns, arguing the proposal had not been publicly disclosed during the approval process.
Legal challenges began in May 2025 when faith groups and taxpayers sued the City of Quincy and Koch in Norfolk Superior Court, claiming the installation violated the state’s constitutional protections on religious neutrality.
Groups opposing the plan include the ACLU of Massachusetts, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Freedom From Religion Foundation.
ACLU’s Argument: The ACLU of Massachusetts, in its brief, contested that the statues have a religious imagery reliant on Catholic iconography, lacking a secular purpose. They argue that the installation would primarily serve the advancement of religion.
However, police associations argue that Saint Michael holds symbolic significance across various faiths and not solely amongst Christians.
A brief from the National Fraternal Order of Police states, “First responders of all stripes, religious creeds, and political affiliations cherish both saints for their symbolic importance to the profession.”
Statements: In a statement, Quincy Mayor Koch emphasized honoring the bravery and service of firefighters and police officers, acknowledging disappointment over the court’s decision but committing to the continued fight to commemorate first responders lawfully.
Jessie Rossman, legal director at the ACLU of Massachusetts, stated, “Here in Massachusetts, our state constitution is clear: The government must remain neutral in matters of religion and must not elevate one faith above others.”
Rossman underscored the importance of neutral governmental stance for a pluralistic society where all faiths can thrive.