Mariann Edgar Budde stands as a prominent figure in the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, renowned for her trailblazing leadership and vocal advocacy on social issues. As the first woman to serve as the spiritual leader of the diocese, Budde has held this esteemed position since her election in 2011. Her tenure has been marked by a dedication to inclusivity and justice, which she has consistently upheld throughout her career.
Budde's journey to leadership began with an impressive academic background. She earned a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Rochester, graduating magna cum laude, before pursuing advanced theological studies. She obtained both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia Theological Seminary, equipping her with the scholarly foundation for her future endeavors. Prior to her current role, she served as the rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minneapolis for 18 years, gaining valuable pastoral experience that would inform her leadership style.
In addition to her clerical duties, Budde is a published author with three books to her name: How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith, Receiving Jesus: The Way of Love, and Gathering Up the Fragments: Preaching as Spiritual Practice. These works reflect her commitment to spiritual growth and social justice, themes she passionately advocates for within her community.
Budde's leadership has not been without controversy, especially in her interactions with former President Donald Trump. Her public opposition to Trump's policies was evident when she expressed outrage over his appearance in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Washington, DC, in June 2020. Budde criticized Trump for using religious symbols for political gain, stating that he "used sacred symbols to cloak himself in the mantle of spiritual authority, while espousing positions antithetical to the Bible that he held in his hands."
“used sacred symbols to cloak himself in the mantle of spiritual authority, while espousing positions antithetical to the Bible that he held in his hands” – Budde
Budde has been an outspoken critic of Trump's stance on immigration and LGBTQ+ rights. During a sermon at the National Cathedral prayer service for the inauguration, she implored Trump to "have mercy upon" immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals. She urged him to show compassion towards "gay, lesbian and transgender children" and families fearing deportation.
“We need leadership that will lead us in the ways that this country deserves,” – Budde
Throughout her ministry, Budde has been a steadfast advocate for immigrants, emphasizing that "the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals." She regards them as "faithful members of our churches, mosques and synagogues, gurdwara and temples."
“The vast majority of immigrants are not criminals,” – Budde
“faithful members of our churches, mosques and synagogues, gurdwara and temples” – Budde
Budde's advocacy extends to social media, where she expressed support for those seeking justice for George Floyd through peaceful protest. Her commitment to inclusivity and unity is evident in her statements urging people to treat everyone with dignity and mercy.
“Our God teaches us that we are to be merciful to the stranger, for we were once strangers in this land” – Budde
“Knowing that a lot of people in our country right now are really scared, I wanted to take the opportunity in the context of that service for unity, to say we need to treat everyone with dignity, and we need to be merciful, I was trying to counter the narrative that is so so divisive and polarizing, and in which people, real people, are being are being harmed” – Budde