Episcopal bishop says she’ll continue to pray for Trump, who lashed out at her over viral sermon
WASHINGTON — The Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Diocese of Washington, stated on Wednesday that she will continue to pray for President Donald Trump, following his criticism of her sermon.
“I don’t consider him an enemy,” Budde expressed. “I believe we can disagree respectfully and present our ideas while standing firm in our convictions, without resorting to violence of speech.”
During a post-Inauguration prayer service attended by Trump, Budde made a direct appeal, asking him to exhibit mercy toward members of the LGBTQ+ community and migrants who are in the country without documentation.
In response, Trump labeled Budde a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater” on his Truth Social platform. He asserted, “Apart from her inappropriate statements, the service was very boring and uninspiring. She is not very good at her job! She and her church owe the public an apology!”
Addressing Trump’s belief in divine protection against assassination, Budde delivered her message, saying, “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.”
She emphasized, “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families, some who fear for their lives.” Budde also remarked that “the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals,” but rather “good neighbors” and “faithful members” of religious communities.
The Trump administration has already enacted executive orders that rollback transgender rights and enforce stricter immigration policies. During the service, both Trump and Vice President JD Vance appeared visibly displeased as they sat in the front pews, exchanging glances and comments with their wives.
Later, Trump assessed the service as “not good,” voicing criticism over Budde’s failure to mention crimes associated with undocumented immigrants. Budde had anticipated focusing on unity for her inaugural sermon, considering the recent divisive election season.
Reflecting on the service, Budde noted the difference in perspectives from Trump-supporting clergy. “The Episcopal Church is not large, but we have a generous view of God and humanity,” she stated, aiming to present a faith-centered interpretation of the world.
She believed framing her words as a gentle plea for mercy was an appropriate approach, acknowledging Trump’s authority. “I guess I had that wrong,” she acknowledged.
Budde’s sermon elicited strong responses following the predictable political and religious divides. Progressives hailed her as a bold example of “speaking truth to power,” while conservatives criticized her approach as confrontational. Additionally, some conservative voices took issue with her role as a leader within the church, as many of their traditions reserve such positions for men.
The Episcopal Church’s national representatives affirmed Budde’s role as “a valued and trusted pastor,” standing by her call for Christian values rooted in mercy and compassion. Progressive Christian activist Shane Claiborne praised Budde on social media, highlighting her ability to “speak the truth in love.”
Conversely, Republican Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia remarked on social media, suggesting Budde should be “added to the deportation list.” Prominent Trump supporter, Pastor Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Dallas, expressed disdain for Budde’s sermon, declaring it insulting to the president and reflecting noticeable discontent among the audience.
After the service, Budde felt the adverse reactions as she walked down the aisle. The president failed to acknowledge her presence. “I try to make eye contact with people and to smile, and not a lot of smiles came back to me,” she recalled.
In light of the criticism, Budde has largely refrained from engaging on social media, noting that the hostility of her critics was precisely the culture of contempt she aimed to address during her sermon. “I hoped to foster a different kind of dialogue,” she reflected.
Budde has previously voiced her criticism of Trump, particularly after a controversial event in 2020 where he posed with a Bible outside St. John’s Episcopal Church after dispersing peaceful protesters. The Episcopal Church, historically influential in American political life, has seen a decline in participation as more individuals move away from established religious structures.
Despite this, the Episcopal Church remains active in hosting significant events at its National Cathedral in Washington, including inaugural prayer services and notable funerals. Since 2011, Budde has held the distinction of being the first woman to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington.
As a mother and grandmother, Budde expressed her genuine concern for her community: “We’re far more alike than we realize. If we take the time to understand one another’s stories, we can soften our hearts.”
