Bishop’s Direct Appeal To Trump Sparks Controversy
At a worship service at Washington National Cathedral, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington directly addressed former President Donald Trump with a heartfelt plea for mercy toward marginalized groups, including LGBTQ individuals and undocumented immigrants. The event, the Service of Prayer for the Nation, brought together diverse faith leaders and communities for reflection and prayer. Trump attended the service alongside First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and Second Lady Usha Vance.
In her sermon, Bishop Budde implored Trump to consider the fears and struggles of vulnerable communities. She highlighted the plight of LGBTQ youth, many of whom fear for their safety, and undocumented workers who contribute significantly to society but face uncertainty and discrimination. She also spoke of families living in fear of separation and refugees seeking asylum from war and persecution. Quoting scripture, Budde reminded the congregation of the biblical call to show mercy to strangers, emphasizing the importance of compassion and justice.
Bishop Budde also addressed broader societal issues, including the growing culture of contempt and the erosion of equality in political discourse. She called for unity and respectful disagreement, urging leaders and citizens alike to honor the dignity of every person and to engage with each other in love and humility. The bishop’s message resonated with themes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, underscoring the values of mercy, truth, and reconciliation.
The service was interfaith in nature, featuring Christian music, Jewish cantorial offerings, a Muslim call to prayer, and readings from representatives of other religious traditions. Clergy offered prayers for national and global leaders, members of the judiciary, armed forces, first responders, and others. This longstanding tradition of interfaith prayer services at the National Cathedral has been observed since 1933, serving as a moment of collective reflection and hope following presidential inaugurations.
Bishop Budde’s message was consistent with her past critiques of Trump, including her disapproval of his 2020 photo-op at St. John’s Episcopal Church, which she described as contrary to the teachings of Jesus. Her remarks at this service echoed her commitment to social justice and the church’s role in advocating for the vulnerable while promoting unity and reconciliation in a divided nation.