Bishop Mariann Budde Delivers Bold Sermon at Trump’s Inaugural Prayer Service
The inauguration of Trump as the 47th President of the United States was a globally watched event, marked by ceremonies steeped in tradition. Amid the pomp and circumstance, one moment stood out—a powerful sermon at the National Cathedral that left many attendees and viewers deeply reflective.
The sermon, delivered by Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde during the inaugural prayer service, addressed President Trump directly. Her words touched on topics that sparked both surprise and debate.
A Plea for Compassion
Taking the podium at Washington’s National Cathedral, Bishop Budde offered a heartfelt message to the new president. “Let me make one final plea, Mr. President,” she began. “Millions have placed their trust in you. And as you mentioned yesterday, you’ve felt the providential hand of a loving God. In the name of that God, I urge you to have mercy on those in our nation who are living in fear.”
Her sermon highlighted the concerns of various marginalized groups, particularly LGBTQIA+ individuals. “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in families across political lines who fear for their lives,” she stated, her gaze appearing to fall on the president.
This message came just a day after Trump signed a series of executive orders, including one addressing gender distinctions, another declaring a national emergency at the southern border, and others targeting immigration policies, such as eliminating birthright citizenship.
Addressing Immigration and Humanity
Bishop Budde didn’t shy away from confronting Trump’s immigration policies. Speaking passionately, she said, “The people who pick our crops, clean our buildings, labor in poultry farms and meatpacking plants, wash dishes in restaurants, and work night shifts in hospitals—many of them may not be citizens or have proper documentation. But the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals. They pay taxes. They are good neighbors.”
Budde has a history of being critical of Trump’s actions. In 2020, she publicly condemned his photo-op in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church, where law enforcement had used chemical agents to clear racial justice protesters. At the time, she remarked, “Everything he has said and done is to inflame violence. We need moral leadership, and he’s done everything to divide us.”
A Divisive Reaction
While Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance remained composed during the sermon, not everyone was as restrained. Republican Representative Mike Collins of Georgia expressed his disapproval on social media, posting, “The person giving this sermon should be added to the deportation list.”
Towards the conclusion of her address, Budde made another emotional appeal. “Mr. President, I ask you to show mercy to the children in our communities who fear losing their parents. Help those fleeing war and persecution find compassion and welcome here. Our God teaches us to be merciful to strangers because we were all once strangers in this land.”
When later asked for his thoughts on the sermon, President Trump offered a brief response, telling reporters, “I didn’t think it was a good service.”
What Do You Think?
Bishop Mariann Budde’s sermon has stirred conversation across the country. Her bold plea for compassion and inclusivity has drawn both praise and criticism. What are your thoughts on her message? Share this story with others and join the discussion.