Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the first woman to serve as the spiritual leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, has become a nationally recognized voice for justice, inclusion, and social change. Known for her boldness and conviction, she made headlines again this week with her direct appeal to former President Donald Trump, urging him to show compassion to marginalized communities.
Bishop Budde said: “We must recognize the dignity of all humans by refusing to mock, discount, or demonize. Mr. President, I ask you to have mercy. We were all once strangers in this land.”
She emphasized the need for compassion toward marginalized groups, including immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community, urging President Trump to show mercy and unity through honest and empathetic leadership.
A Trailblazer in the Episcopal Church
Bishop Budde, 65, has led the Episcopal Diocese of Washington since 2011, overseeing congregations in the capital and parts of Maryland, including the iconic National Cathedral. She is a trailblazer in her field, being the first woman to hold the role in the diocese’s history. Before her tenure in Washington, Budde spent nearly 20 years as rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minneapolis.
A graduate of the University of Rochester and Virginia Theological Seminary, Budde’s leadership has been defined by her commitment to addressing critical issues such as racial reconciliation, LGBTQ+ rights, gun violence, and economic equity. Her voice has consistently championed those who feel marginalized, and her leadership has been a beacon for those seeking justice through faith.
Clash with Trump During the St. John’s Church Controversy
Bishop Budde rose to national prominence in 2020 after President Trump’s controversial photo-op outside St. John’s Episcopal Church near the White House. The event, which involved federal officers using tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters, sparked outrage. Trump’s use of the church and a Bible as props drew condemnation from Budde, who accused him of misusing sacred symbols.
“I am outraged,” she wrote in The New York Times. “The president used sacred symbols while espousing positions antithetical to the Bible.” Her statement resonated with many Americans who viewed the event as a profound misuse of power and cemented Budde’s reputation as a courageous leader willing to challenge authority.
A Plea for Mercy
On Tuesday, during a sermon attended by Mr. Trump and Vice President JD Vance, Bishop Budde made another impassioned appeal. Addressing the president directly, she urged him to “have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” She cited immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals, two groups often targeted by policies under his administration.
“Unity requires honesty, humility, and recognition of the dignity of all humans by refusing to mock, discount, or demonize,” she said. Her plea, “I ask you to have mercy, Mr. President. We were all once strangers in this land,” drew noticeable reactions from the audience. Mr. Trump looked down, while Vice President Vance raised his eyebrows.
Advocate for Justice and Inclusion
Budde’s consistent advocacy for justice reflects her deeply held belief in the transformative power of faith. “We must stand with those who suffer,” she has often said, “and ensure that love and justice guide our actions.” Her sermons and public addresses often challenge both political leaders and everyday citizens to embrace these values.
A Lasting Legacy of Leadership
As a leader, Bishop Budde continues to inspire with her calls for compassion and her dedication to uniting a deeply divided nation. Her ability to speak truth to power, even in the most politically charged moments, has made her one of the Episcopal Church’s most influential voices.
Her latest plea to Trump underscores her unwavering commitment to justice and inclusion, reminding Americans of their shared humanity and the importance of standing up for those in need. In a time of division, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde remains a steadfast voice for unity, compassion, and hope.
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