The Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the bishop of the Diocese of Washington, announced on Wednesday that she will continue to pray for President Donald Trump, following his critical response to a sermon she delivered. “I do not view him as an enemy,” Budde stated, emphasizing her belief that it is possible to engage in respectful disagreement while upholding one’s convictions without resorting to hostile rhetoric.
During a prayer service post-Inauguration that Trump attended, Budde appealed directly to him, urging him to extend mercy towards LGBTQ+ individuals and undocumented migrants. In a reaction on his Truth Social platform, Trump labeled Budde a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater.” He further remarked on her sermon being “boring” and “uninspiring,” insisting that she and her church owe an apology to the public for what he deemed inappropriate comments.
In her sermon, Budde highlighted the importance of compassion and mercy, particularly referencing Trump’s own claims about divine protection. She urged the president to show kindness to those in the country who are feeling anxious, noting the presence of LGBTQ+ youth among diverse political families and underscoring that most immigrants are not criminals but rather valuable community members.
Trump’s administration has faced criticism for implementing policies that rolled back transgender rights and tightened immigration restrictions. While Budde was mindful of the differing perspectives that clergy supporting Trump presented, she remained committed to conveying a message of unity during her sermon, especially in a time that has seen increased division.
She expressed that framing her appeal to the president as a call to mercy was intended as a gentle approach, acknowledging his authority. However, she reflected that perhaps she had misjudged the reception her words would receive. Reactions to her sermon largely aligned with existing political and religious divides, with progressive individuals finding inspiration in her boldness, while conservative voices perceived her comments as confrontational.
The Episcopal Church has expressed support for Budde, describing her as a trusted pastor and affirming her call for Christian values of mercy and compassion. While progressive Christian activist Shane Claiborne lauded her efforts on social media, Republican representatives like Mike Collins called for her deportation following her sermon. Prominent Trump supporters, such as Pastor Robert Jeffress, accused Budde of disrespecting the president.
Budde sensed the tension during the service as she departed the cathedral, reflecting on the lack of warmth in the responses she received. She has largely avoided engaging with the backlash online, indicating that such negative discourse was contrary to the message of unity she hoped to convey. Her intention was to encourage a more understanding and compassionate dialogue amidst the prevailing divisive culture.
Budde has a history of critiquing Trump’s actions, notably expressing outrage when he held a Bible outside St. John’s Episcopal Church in 2020, an event that followed the clearing of peaceful protests. The Episcopal Church, known for its deep-rooted ties to American political history, has seen a decline in attendance and recognition among the populace but continues to play a prominent role in hosting significant events in Washington.
As the first woman to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, Budde expressed her genuine concern for community well-being and underscored the commonalities among people. “We’re more alike than we realize,” she noted, advocating for deeper connections and understanding among individuals.
