In a bold and direct appeal during President Donald Trump’s inaugural prayer service, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington urged the new president to show mercy to LGBTQ+ youth and immigrant families.
“Have mercy on the people who are scared now,” Budde said, calling attention to the fear experienced by LGBTQ+ children and families threatened by potential deportation under Trump’s policies.
She also emphasized the importance of empathy for refugees fleeing violence and persecution.
Trump, however, dismissed the service, labeling it “boring” and accusing Budde of politicizing the church. On Truth Social, he criticized the bishop, referring to her as a “Radical Left hardliner” and demanded an apology.
The bishop’s remarks sparked mixed reactions. Supporters praised her for her courage in addressing the president directly, while critics accused her of being divisive during such a ceremonial event.
In her defense, Budde explained, “The fear among our people—both immigrants and the LGBTQ community—is palpable. I couldn’t stay silent.”
As the first female leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington since 2011, her address marked a historic and highly polarizing moment during the typically non-political tradition of inaugural prayer services.
