The Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde made headlines with her powerful sermon at the Washington National Cathedral, where she directly addressed then-President Donald Trump. As the first woman to serve as the spiritual leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington since 2011, Bishop Budde used this platform to deliver a poignant message that highlighted the contributions of immigrants and urged compassion for marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals. Her sermon drew both praise and criticism, illustrating the divisive nature of political discourse in contemporary America.
Bishop Budde, aged 65, has had a distinguished career in religious leadership. She graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Rochester. She furthered her education with a master's in divinity and a doctor of ministry from Virginia Theological Seminary. Prior to her service in Washington, she was rector of St John's Episcopal church in Minneapolis for 18 years.
In her inaugural prayer service sermon, Bishop Budde emphasized the importance of recognizing the humanity of immigrants, stating that "the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals, they pay taxes, and are good neighbors, they are faithful members of our churches, mosques and synagogues, gurdwara and temples." She challenged Trump's policies that she believed denied such truths.
"She named the truth their policies deny," noted Austen Ivereigh, underscoring the impact of her words.
Bishop Budde also addressed the fears of "gay, lesbian and transgender children in Democratic, Republican and independent families," urging Trump to show mercy.
"Our God teaches us that we are to be merciful to the stranger, for we were once strangers in this land," she proclaimed.
Her bold message was met with admiration from some quarters. The Rev Caitlin Frazier, assistant rector at St Mark’s Episcopal Church on Capitol Hill, expressed her support.
"Proud to hear Bishop Budde speak the truths that Jesus calls us to speak," said Rev Frazier.
However, not everyone received her sermon positively. Trump and his allies criticized her tone and comments about his policies. On social media, Trump labeled her as a "Radical Left hard line Trump hater."
Bishop Budde's outspoken nature was not limited to her sermons. She publicly criticized Trump's 2020 appearance in front of St John’s Episcopal Church in Washington DC, where he held up a Bible for a photo op after federal officers used teargas to clear peaceful protesters. Her opinion piece in the New York Times further expressed her outrage over Trump's actions during this incident.
"An appeal to his humanity and an appeal on behalf of humanity," said Bernice King regarding Budde’s approach.
While Bishop Budde's sermon and subsequent actions intensified political tensions, they also sparked meaningful discussions about leadership and morality. Her courage in addressing such contentious issues resonated with many who shared her concerns.
"Their expressions of fury and discomfort suggest she nailed it," added Austen Ivereigh, capturing the polarized reactions to her sermon.