Bishop’s Bold Sermon at Trump’s Inaugural Prayer Service Sparks Nationwide Debate
The inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States was marked by global attention, but one moment, in particular, has become a major topic of conversation: the sermon delivered by Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde during the inaugural prayer service at Washington’s National Cathedral.
Known for her outspoken stance on social justice, Bishop Budde used the occasion to deliver a powerful and unexpected message, addressing the president directly. In her 15-minute sermon, she made a heartfelt plea, stating, “Millions have put their trust in you.
And as you said yesterday, you have felt the providential hand of a loving God. In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” Her remarks appeared to resonate deeply with many but also sparked controversy.
Budde’s sermon tackled sensitive topics, including the fears within marginalized communities. She spoke directly about the concerns of LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly children, as well as the contributions and struggles of immigrants. “The people who pick our crops, clean our offices, and work tirelessly in our hospitals may not have citizenship, but they are not criminals.
They are our neighbors,” she declared.
Her comments were seen as a direct response to the series of executive orders Trump signed on his first day in office, including measures rescinding birthright citizenship, declaring a national emergency at the southern border, and legally recognizing biological distinctions between men and women.
The sermon also drew attention for its moral and emotional appeal. Budde urged the president to remember the core teachings of compassion and mercy: “Our God teaches us to be merciful to the stranger, for we were all once strangers in this land.”
While President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance remained composed during the sermon, reactions to Budde’s words were divided. Some praised her courage, while others, like Republican Representative Mike Collins, voiced their disapproval. Collins took to social media, posting a controversial remark that the bishop “should be added to the deportation list.”
Trump himself offered a curt response when asked about the sermon, stating simply, “I didn’t think it was a good service.”
Bishop Budde is no stranger to taking bold stances.
She gained national attention in 2020 after condemning Trump for using St. John’s Episcopal Church as a backdrop during protests, accusing him of inflaming division instead of fostering unity.
What are your thoughts on Bishop Mariann Budde’s message?
Was her sermon a bold act of moral leadership or an overstep for an inaugural prayer service? Share this story and join the conversation!
