Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde made headlines during Donald Trump’s inaugural prayer service at Washington National Cathedral. In a heartfelt plea, she urged the newly sworn-in president to show kindness and mercy toward those living in fear, particularly marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ children and undocumented immigrants.
“In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,” Bishop Budde implored. She reminded Trump of the vulnerable lives at stake, saying, “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and Independent families—some who fear for their lives.”
Trump, attending alongside First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance, reportedly dismissed the service as unremarkable.
Who is Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde?
Bishop Budde is a trailblazer in her faith and a steadfast advocate for justice.
- Early Life and Education: Raised in New Jersey and Colorado, she earned a BA in history from the University of Rochester and later pursued her passion for ministry, obtaining a Master of Divinity in 1989 and a Doctor of Ministry in 2008 from Virginia Theological Seminary.
- Ministry: For 18 years, she served as rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minneapolis before being elected in 2011 as the first woman to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington. Today, she oversees 86 congregations, ten schools, and the National Cathedral.
- Advocacy: Known for her strong stance on issues like gun violence prevention, racial equality, LGBTQ+ inclusion, immigration reform, and environmental stewardship, Bishop Budde has become a moral compass for many.
- Personal Life: At 65, she is not only a leader in her church but a wife, mother of two sons, and grandmother.
A Time for Compassion
On his first day as president, Trump issued executive orders rolling back transgender protections, tightening immigration policies, and ending birthright citizenship. These moves have deepened fears among already vulnerable communities.
Bishop Budde’s impassioned plea stands as a reminder of the moral duty leaders have to care for all people, especially those who are most at risk. In her words, spoken with love and courage, she gave voice to those yearning for compassion and justice.