In a time when political and social divisions run deep, moments of moral clarity often arise from unexpected places. Such was the case during the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral.
The Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, Episcopal Bishop of Washington, delivered a sermon that quickly became the center of national discourse. Her words struck a chord, offering a message that transcended ceremonial expectations.
The bishop addressed the congregation with a heartfelt appeal, urging for compassion and understanding. Her speech called for action that upheld human dignity and the values of mercy.
She began her plea with a direct acknowledgment of the nation’s current climate of fear and uncertainty. “Let me make one final plea, Mr. President,” she stated, with President Donald Trump seated in the front pew.
Budde continued, “Millions have put their trust in you… In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” Her words were both a challenge and a call to unity.
Throughout her address, Bishop Budde highlighted the struggles of marginalized communities. She emphasized the fears of LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and others affected by divisive policies.
Her plea was not merely symbolic—it came amidst heightened tensions and significant policy changes. Within his first 24 hours back in office, President Trump had enacted several controversial executive orders.
Among the new policies was one declaring that there are “only two genders.” Trump also intensified border control measures and suspended refugee resettlement for four months.
Bishop Budde’s sermon was a bold challenge, sparking widespread conversations about the role of religious leaders in political discourse. Her words, however, did not come without consequences.
President Trump responded swiftly and publicly, taking to his social media platform, Truth Social. He labeled Bishop Budde a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater” and criticized her for politicizing the pulpit.
He dismissed the service as “very boring” and demanded an apology from both Bishop Budde and the Episcopal Church. The president’s unfiltered remarks intensified the spotlight on the sermon.
Despite the backlash, Bishop Budde remained unwavering in her stance. Speaking to TIME, she declared, “I am not going to apologize for asking for mercy for others.”
Reflecting on the uproar, Budde shared, “I’ve heard from many people who are grateful that someone was willing to speak on their behalf.” She acknowledged the criticism but stood firm in her convictions.
She added, “The level of attack has been sobering and disheartening, but I will not back down.” Her words underscored her commitment to fostering compassion and respectful dialogue.
This is not the first time Bishop Budde has clashed with President Trump. During the George Floyd protests in 2020, she publicly criticized his use of St. John’s Episcopal Church for a photo op.
She had accused him of using the church and the Bible as partisan props, igniting another round of national debate. Her history of advocacy and outspokenness has defined her leadership.
Budde’s leadership extends beyond her clashes with the president. In 2011, she shattered barriers by becoming the first woman to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington.
A New Jersey native, Budde graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in history from the University of Rochester. She furthered her education with a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia Theological Seminary.
Throughout her career, she has championed causes such as racial equity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and gun violence prevention. Her work has been a consistent call to action for justice and equality.
It was during this year’s National Prayer Service that she made her most recent and impactful stand. The sermon’s boldness sparked both criticism and praise from across the nation.
In the final moments of her message, Budde delivered a poignant challenge to the president and his administration. “We can bring multiple perspectives into a common space and do so with dignity and respect,” she stated.
As the nation grapples with its divisions, Bishop Budde’s message calls for moral accountability from its leaders. Her refusal to apologize has highlighted the enduring power of courage and conviction.
Breaking her silence, Budde addressed the controversy during an NPR interview. She clarified, “I don’t hate the president, and I pray for him. But I don’t feel there’s a need to apologize for a request for mercy.”
Her words have since inspired a broader conversation about the intersection of faith and politics. While some praise her courage, others have criticized her for what they see as politicizing the pulpit.
In the end, Budde’s actions reflect a commitment to advocating for those without a platform. She has proven that the enduring strength of compassion and morality can resonate beyond political divides.
As the nation continues to watch, one thing is clear: Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde is not backing down. Her voice remains a powerful reminder of the values that unite us all.
Feature Image Credit: (CBS News)
