By Madalaine Elhabbal
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Jan 21, 2025 / 15:30 pm
Recently, at an interfaith prayer service held at Washington National Cathedral, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington delivered a powerful message to President Donald Trump, urging him to show compassion towards migrants and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
During her sermon, Bishop Budde appealed to President Trump to consider the fears and struggles of those who have placed their trust in him. She emphasized the importance of mercy and understanding towards marginalized groups, including gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals who may be facing challenges and discrimination.
Addressing the President directly, Bishop Budde called for unity and empathy, highlighting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of Americans across the political spectrum. She urged Trump to embrace a culture of compassion and to prioritize the well-being of all citizens, regardless of their identities or beliefs.
Attended by President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other political figures, the interfaith service served as a moment of reflection and prayer for the nation. Bishop Budde’s message resonated with the audience, emphasizing the need for unity and solidarity in a time of division and discord.
As the spiritual leader of numerous congregations and schools in Washington, D.C., and Maryland, Bishop Budde continues to advocate for inclusivity and understanding within the Episcopal community. Her commitment to social justice and compassion serves as a guiding light for all who seek a more tolerant and united society.
In a recent blog post, the remarkable advocate and organizer who champions justice causes such as racial equity, gun violence prevention, immigration reform, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental conservation was praised for her impactful sermon. Reverend Budde fearlessly spoke out against the divisive nature of contemporary politics, warning against the dangers of using contempt as a tool for leadership.
During the service, Reverend Budde directly addressed President Trump and Vance, who were seated in the front row, urging them to show compassion for immigrants and their families who live in fear of separation. She emphasized that the majority of immigrants are law-abiding individuals who contribute to society and pay taxes, deserving of respect and dignity.
The powerful sermon was complemented by prayers and musical performances from a diverse group of religious leaders representing different faith backgrounds, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism. However, the absence of Catholic leaders was noted during the service.
As the country approached the election, prominent churches like the National Cathedral and St. John’s Episcopal Church made a deliberate decision to focus their pre- and post-Inauguration Day services on prayer and unity. St. John’s chose to eliminate the homily from its program, opting instead for a nonpartisan approach centered on Scripture, morning prayer, and music, emphasizing inclusivity and openness to all attendees.
This significant shift towards unity and prayer in religious services reflects a growing desire for healing and reconciliation in a time of political division and social unrest. The message of compassion and understanding preached by Reverend Budde resonates with the values of empathy and justice that are essential for building a more harmonious society.
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