Although Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States garnered international interest, a heated speech during the inaugural prayer service held at the National Cathedral soon turned into a source of conflict.
Many people thought that Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde’s speech, which touched on delicate subjects and spoke directly to President Trump, was daring and unexpected.
“Millions have put their trust in you,” Bishop Budde said in her 15-minute speech, urging Trump to govern with compassion.
I beseech you to show mercy to those who are scared in the name of our God. Her comments were especially directed at underrepresented groups, such as immigrants and LGBTQIA+ people.
Budde talked strongly about the contributions that immigrant families provide to the country and their worries.
The sermon followed Trump’s signing of several executive orders, including measures recognizing biological distinctions between genders, ending birthright citizenship, and declaring a national emergency at the southern border. Budde’s words appeared to directly challenge these policies, calling for empathy and mercy.
This isn’t the first time Bishop Budde has publicly criticized Trump. In 2020, she condemned his photo op outside St. John’s Episcopal Church after protesters were forcibly removed, accusing him of using divisive tactics.
Reactions to Budde’s sermon were polarized. While Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance remained composed during the service, others expressed outrage.
Republican Representative Mike Collins of Georgia tweeted, “The person giving this sermon should be added to the deportation list.”
Trump responded to the sermon in a succinct manner. He later told reporters, “I didn’t think it was a good service.”
“Our God teaches us to be merciful to the stranger, for we were all once strangers in this land,” Bishop Budde said as she concluded her speech, urging compassion.
How do you feel about the audacious message Bishop Budde sent to President Trump in his sermon? Comment below!