During a religious service in Washington DC, Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde delivered a sermon that caught the attention of many, including President Donald Trump.

Known for her liberal views and longstanding opposition to the former president, Budde took the opportunity to address Trump directly, speaking on topics related to LGBT rights and undocumented migrants.

Budde’s Message to Trump on LGBT Rights and Migrants

Bishop Budde, who proudly supports gay marriage and uses inclusive pronouns, directed her sermon toward President Trump as he sat in the congregation with First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.

She spoke about the struggles faced by LGBT children and undocumented migrants, urging the president to show mercy and compassion for vulnerable populations.

“There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and Independent families, some who fear for their lives,” she stated during the service.

She went on to emphasize the importance of protecting those who are often marginalized, particularly migrant workers who contribute to society through low-wage labor despite their undocumented status.

Criticism of Trump and Call for Compassion

Budde, who has been a vocal critic of Donald Trump in the past, didn’t shy away from addressing him directly.

“Millions have put their trust in you…in the name of our God, I ask you, have mercy on people in our country who are scared now,” she urged. Her speech also highlighted the significant role of immigrants in the U.S. workforce, particularly those in essential yet underappreciated jobs.

Trump appeared unmoved by Budde’s words and showed little reaction.

The congregation, meanwhile, seemed uncomfortable with the direct nature of the sermon.

Budde’s call for compassion reflects her longstanding commitment to progressive causes, particularly regarding social justice and human rights.

A History of Activism and Public Criticism

Bishop Budde’s remarks were not surprising to those familiar with her history of public activism.

She has long been an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights, racial justice, and reforming systems that she views as harmful.

In 2011, she famously declared her support for gay marriage, describing it as “a no-brainer.”

Throughout her tenure, she has remained unapologetically liberal, a stance that has made her a controversial figure, particularly in conservative circles.

Budde has also been critical of Trump’s actions in the past, particularly following the infamous photo-op in 2020 when Trump held a Bible outside St. John’s Church near the White House, using the church as a backdrop while clearing out protesters.

Budde was quick to condemn the president’s actions, calling them “antithetical to the teachings of Jesus.”

Budde’s Statement on the 2024 Election and Divisive Politics

After the 2024 election, Budde issued a statement to her diocese in Washington, reflecting on the “divisive political rhetoric” that had permeated the season.

She expressed concern about the “dramatic shift of power” that some found alarming.

However, she also urged her congregation to stay united in their commitment to love and serve all people, despite differing political views.

“In times of dramatic change, we are vulnerable to our most unhelpful tendencies and often make our greatest mistakes,” she wrote, encouraging people to rise above political division and focus on compassion and personal growth.

Bishop Budde’s Past Outspokenness on Social Issues

This isn’t the first time that Bishop Budde has used her platform to address critical social issues.

Following the death of George Floyd, she publicly expressed her support for the Black Lives Matter movement, noting that her children had participated in the protests.

She has been a consistent voice for justice and equality, condemning responses that she views as insufficient or harmful, particularly from political leaders.

Her vocal advocacy for these causes has made her a polarizing figure, but she continues to stand firm in her beliefs, calling for greater compassion, justice, and inclusivity in all areas of society.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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