The inauguration of President Donald Trump was watched by millions around the world. Among the various events that took place, one moment that caught everyone’s attention was the sermon delivered by Bishop Mariann Budde. Her words were a heartfelt plea to the president, urging him to show mercy and compassion to those who fear for their future.
Bishop Budde’s sermon was a powerful call to action, as she directly addressed President Trump. She reminded him that millions of people have put their trust in him and that he has a responsibility to act with kindness and empathy. The bishop’s words were particularly poignant as she spoke about the LGBTQIA+ community, who fear for their lives and well-being under the Trump administration ¹.
The bishop also addressed some of the executive orders signed by President Trump, including those related to immigration and women’s rights. She emphasized that immigrants are not criminals, but rather hardworking individuals who contribute to society. Bishop Budde’s words were a stark contrast to the divisive rhetoric that has characterized much of the Trump presidency.
Bishop Budde has been an outspoken critic of President Trump in the past. In 2020, she condemned his actions after he posed with a Bible outside St. John’s Episcopal Church, following the dispersal of racial justice protesters with chemical agents. The bishop’s criticism of the president’s actions was clear, as she stated that his words and actions have only served to inflame violence and divide the country ¹.
The bishop’s sermon ended with a powerful message, as she urged President Trump to show compassion to those fleeing war zones and persecution. Her words were a reminder that the United States has a long tradition of welcoming strangers and providing refuge to those in need.
President Trump’s response to the bishop’s sermon was dismissive, as he stated that he “didn’t think it was a good service.” Republican U.S. Representative Mike Collins from Georgia went even further, suggesting that Bishop Budde should be added to a deportation list. The backlash against the bishop’s words highlights the deep divisions that exist in the United States today ¹.
