During President Donald Trump’s inauguration, Bishop Mariann Budde delivered a sermon that directly addressed the nation’s leader, urging him to show compassion towards marginalized communities. She emphasized the fears faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and the contributions of immigrants, stating, “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in families across the political spectrum… who are living in fear for their lives.” She also highlighted that many immigrants, though lacking proper documentation, significantly contribute to society and are not criminals.
In response, President Trump dismissed the service, stating, “Not too exciting, was it? I didn’t think it was a very good service, no. They could do much better.”
He later took to social media, labeling Bishop Budde as a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater” and demanded an apology from her and the Episcopal Church.
Bishop Budde has a history of criticizing President Trump’s actions. In 2020, she condemned his photo op outside St. John’s Episcopal Church, where he posed with a Bible after law enforcement cleared protesters using chemical agents. At that time, she stated, “Everything he has said and done is meant to inflame violence… We need moral leadership, and he has only worked to divide us.”
Despite the backlash, Bishop Budde stood by her message, emphasizing the importance of mercy and compassion in leadership. She urged the President to “have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,” highlighting the fears of both LGBTQ+ individuals and immigrant families concerned about potential separations.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion, with reactions divided along political and ideological lines. Some praised the bishop’s courage to speak truth to power, while others criticized her for politicizing a religious service. This event underscores the ongoing tensions between the current administration and religious leaders advocating for social justice and inclusivity.
