The Washington National Cathedral recently hosted the National Prayer Service, a long-standing tradition following presidential inaugurations. The event was intended to inspire reflection, unity, and spiritual guidance for the nation’s leaders.
On January 21, 2025, leaders from various sectors gathered to mark this solemn occasion. Among them was Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, known for her advocacy for social justice and inclusion.
Bishop Budde took center stage at the ceremony to deliver a heartfelt sermon. She addressed President Donald Trump, who was seated prominently in the front row during the service.
Her message was a call for compassion, urging the administration to prioritize mercy in its governance. “Millions have put their trust in you,” she began, her voice steady but impassioned.
Citing the fears of marginalized groups, she continued, “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in families across the political spectrum, some who fear for their lives.” She called for empathy and understanding for these vulnerable communities.
The Bishop’s message extended beyond LGBTQ+ rights to undocumented immigrants seeking refuge. She emphasized their contributions, saying, “They may not have proper documentation, but the vast majority are not criminals.”
She concluded with a powerful appeal, urging President Trump to “have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” Her words resonated deeply with many present at the service.
Notable attendees included Vice President JD Vance, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth. Religious leaders from various faiths also offered prayers and reflections for the nation’s new administration.
The atmosphere during the ceremony was solemn, with an overarching theme of hope and unity. However, the aftermath of the event sparked a surprising turn of events that soon became a national talking point.
Just a day after the service, President Trump responded publicly to Bishop Budde’s sermon. Taking to his Truth Social platform, he expressed strong disapproval of her remarks.
In a scathing post, Trump referred to Bishop Budde as a “Radical Left hardliner” and criticized her tone as “nasty.” He dismissed her sermon as “boring” and claimed it lacked inspiration.
The President went on to accuse the Bishop of politicizing her platform during the sacred event. Trump stated, “The so-called Bishop was nasty in tone and not compelling or smart.”
He further defended his administration’s policies, which include controversial measures targeting LGBTQ+ rights and undocumented immigrants. Trump claimed these policies were essential for “restoring biological reality” and ensuring national security.
Trump’s post concluded with a direct demand for an apology from Bishop Budde. He accused her of disrespecting her position and the American public by delivering such remarks.
The backlash from Trump’s response sparked mixed reactions across the political and religious spectrum. Evangelical pastor Robert Jeffress criticized the Bishop for “insulting rather than encouraging our great president.”
Republican Congressman Mike Collins added fuel to the fire by suggesting Bishop Budde “should be added to the deportation list,” despite her being a U.S. citizen. The comments highlighted deep divisions over faith and politics.
On the other hand, the Bishop’s sermon garnered widespread support from civil rights advocates and religious scholars. Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., praised Budde for her courage and adherence to the core values of faith.
Austen Ivereigh, a biographer of Pope Francis, also lauded Bishop Budde’s message. He emphasized that her plea for mercy and compassion was deeply rooted in Christian teachings.
Reflecting on the controversy, Bishop Budde stood firm in her beliefs and refused to back down. “I will not apologize for asking for mercy and compassion,” she said in a follow-up statement.
She reiterated the importance of humility and empathy in leadership, urging public officials to rise above a “culture of contempt.” She described mercy as a crucial quality for anyone entrusted with power.
This unexpected feud between President Trump and Bishop Budde has reignited national debates over civil rights and political morality. It has also brought attention to the role of religious leaders in holding public figures accountable.
Observers note that this incident is likely the first of many clashes between Trump’s administration and advocates for social justice. The ideological divide between them highlights the challenges of uniting a deeply polarized nation.
For now, the National Prayer Service of 2025 will be remembered not just for its spiritual significance. It will also be noted for sparking one of the most compelling and divisive debates of Trump’s second term in office.
Feature Image Credit: (CBS News)
