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- Bishop Mariann Budde refuses to apologize for her sermon asking President Trump to show mercy to LGBTQ+ individuals and migrants.
- Trump demanded an apology, calling Budde a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater.”
- The sermon was part of an interfaith prayer service at the Washington National Cathedral.
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Essential Context
During a prayer service at the Washington National Cathedral following President Trump’s inauguration, Bishop Mariann Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington delivered a sermon that directly addressed President Trump. She appealed to him to have mercy on the LGBTQ+ community and migrant workers.
Core Players
- Bishop Mariann Budde – Episcopal bishop of Washington
- President Donald Trump – President of the United States
- Washington National Cathedral – Venue of the interfaith prayer service
Key Numbers
- 10 – Number of official inaugural prayer services hosted by Washington National Cathedral since 1933
- Jan. 20, 2025 – Date of President Trump’s inauguration
- Jan. 22, 2025 – Date of the interfaith prayer service and Budde’s sermon
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The Catalyst
Bishop Mariann Budde’s sermon was a pivotal moment in the interfaith prayer service, emphasizing the need for mercy and compassion. She said, “You have felt the providential hand of a loving God. In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.”
This appeal came after Trump signed executive orders that rolled back transgender rights and toughened immigration policies.
Inside Forces
Budde’s sermon reflected her long-standing criticism of Trump’s policies. She had previously rebuked his “racialized rhetoric” and blamed him for inciting violence on January 6, 2021.
The sermon also highlighted the broader themes of the service, which focused on national unity and the inherent dignity of every human being.
Power Dynamics
Trump responded sharply to Budde’s sermon, demanding an apology and labeling her a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater.” He criticized the service as “very boring and uninspiring” and stated that Budde “was nasty in tone, and not compelling or smart.”
Despite this, Budde remains resolute, telling NPR, “I won’t apologize” for her sermon.
Outside Impact
The controversy has sparked a lively reaction on social media. Supporters like Austen Ivereigh praised Budde for “naming the truth,” while critics such as Robert Jeffress felt she “insulted rather than encouraged our great president.”
The incident underscores the deep divisions within the country and the challenges of promoting unity in a politically charged environment.
Future Forces
The aftermath of this incident could set a precedent for how religious leaders engage with political figures. Budde’s stance may inspire others to speak more boldly on social and political issues.
The ongoing debate highlights the role of faith in public discourse and the tension between religious values and political policies.
Data Points
- Oct. 2024: Budde was announced as the preacher for the interfaith prayer service.
- Jan. 20, 2025: Trump signed executive orders affecting LGBTQ+ rights and immigration policies.
- Jan. 22, 2025: Budde delivered her sermon at the Washington National Cathedral.
- Over a dozen religious leaders participated in the service, representing Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions.
The interaction between Bishop Mariann Budde and President Trump reflects broader societal tensions and the complex relationship between faith, politics, and public discourse. As the country navigates these issues, the role of religious leaders in advocating for mercy and compassion will likely remain a significant point of discussion.
