On the morning following his inauguration, former President Donald Trump found himself at the center of an unexpected and striking sermon delivered by Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde.
Addressing a congregation that included Trump and First Lady Melania in the front row, the bishop’s words touched on themes of mercy and compassion for marginalized groups, leaving a palpable tension in the air.
A Call for Mercy
Bishop Budde’s sermon emphasized empathy for vulnerable populations, including migrants and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
“I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country that are scared now,” she said, urging the president to consider the plight of gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals across political and social divides.
She also turned attention to undocumented workers, highlighting their contributions to industries often overlooked.
“The people who pick our crops, clean our offices, labor in poultry farms, and wash the dishes after meals in restaurants might not be citizens or have the proper documentation,” she explained, pressing for a humane perspective on immigration policies.
Trump’s Reaction
The president appeared visibly weary during the service, perhaps reflecting the exhaustion from the inauguration festivities.
While Bishop Budde’s words resonated with some in attendance, Trump’s demeanor remained detached, showing little reaction to the pointed remarks.
“The vast majority of immigrants are not criminals,” Budde continued, addressing the fears many children in immigrant families face regarding deportation.
She concluded with a powerful reminder: “Our God teaches us to be merciful to the stranger, for we were all strangers once.”
Backlash from Trump Supporters
The bishop’s remarks were met with criticism from Trump supporters and Republican figures.
Representative Mike Collins of Georgia expressed his discontent on social media, suggesting that Budde’s name be added to a “deportation list.”
This wasn’t the first time Bishop Budde clashed with Trump.
She had previously spoken out against him during his first term, most notably after the controversial moment when Trump stood in front of an Episcopal church holding a Bible following the clearing of Lafayette Square during Black Lives Matter protests.
A History of Advocacy
Bishop Budde’s ministry is known for championing progressive causes, including racial equity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, gun violence prevention, and environmental justice.
On her diocesan website, she outlines her commitment to social issues, describing her role as both an advocate and an organizer.
Her criticism of Trump extended beyond the pulpit.
During a Black Lives Matter protest in 2020, she labeled his actions “antithetical to the teachings of Jesus.”
Reflecting her frustration, Budde later declared, “I’ve given up speaking to President Trump. We need to replace him.”
A Divisive Moment in History
Bishop Budde’s sermon stands as a reminder of the intersection between faith and politics.
Her direct appeal to Trump highlighted the deep divides in public opinion about his policies and leadership, sparking both applause and outrage.
As the nation continues to grapple with these tensions, the bishop’s words serve as a bold example of using faith as a platform to call for justice and compassion.
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