The Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, has recently stirred up quite a conversation with her heartfelt plea for compassion towards marginalized communities, including illegal immigrants and the LGBTQ+ population. This appeal came during a sermon at a Service of Prayer for the Nation held at the Washington National Cathedral, where she addressed President Donald Trump directly, calling for “mercy” amid the current climate of fear many are experiencing.
Bishop Budde’s comments have sparked a national dialogue about unity and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background. During her appearance on the popular talk show "The View," she elaborated on her remarks, emphasizing the need for a collective spirit of mercy and understanding. “Unity requires a certain degree of compassion,” she explained, highlighting the importance of treating every person with dignity.
In her sermon, Budde specifically mentioned the plight of “gay, lesbian, and transgender children” who, she said, are living in fear. This statement resonated deeply as she urged the congregation and the nation to consider the humanity of those affected by divisive policies. “The people who pick our crops, clean our office buildings, and work in our hospitals may not have the proper documentation, but they are not criminals,” she asserted, shedding light on the often-overlooked contributions of immigrants to society.
Trump’s reaction to Budde’s sermon was swift and critical. He labeled her a “radical left, hardline Trump hater” on social media, accusing her of politicizing the church and demanding an apology. In response, Budde dismissed his comments as part of a broader “culture of contempt” that characterizes today’s political landscape. She expressed her desire to foster dialogue rather than division, stating, “I was trying to speak a truth that needed to be said, but to do it in as respectful and kind a way as I could.”
The bishop’s remarks come at a time when church sanctuaries are increasingly under threat, particularly as policies expand the authority of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enter places traditionally considered safe havens. Budde described this erosion of sanctuary as “heartbreaking” and called for a renewed commitment to protect the basic human rights of vulnerable populations.
In her heartfelt discussion on "The View," Budde also expressed her willingness to engage directly with the president if given the opportunity. She emphasized her commitment to respectful dialogue, stating, “I would welcome that opportunity. I can assure him that I would be as respectful as I would with any person.”
Budde is known for her progressive views and has previously criticized Trump’s actions, including a controversial photo-op he staged at St. John’s Episcopal Church in 2020. Her consistent advocacy for justice and compassion reflects her commitment to the teachings of Jesus, which emphasize love and acceptance.
The interfaith service at the National Cathedral, a tradition since 1933, included prayers from leaders of various faiths, underscoring the importance of unity across religious divides. As the nation grapples with issues of immigration, LGBTQ+ rights, and the role of faith in public life, Bishop Budde’s call for compassion and understanding stands as a powerful reminder of the need for mercy in these challenging times.
For those interested in further exploring the intersection of faith and social justice, the American Civil Liberties Union offers extensive resources on civil rights issues, while Sojourners provides insights on faith-based activism.