HPK
The Right Rev Mariann Edgar Budde's Plea for Mercy
Rev. Budde's Sermon
The Right Rev Mariann Edgar Budde, the first woman to serve as the spiritual leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, delivered a powerful sermon at the National Cathedral prayer service for the inauguration, urging President Donald Trump to show mercy to immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and families fearing deportation.
She emphasized the contributions of immigrants, stating that the vast majority are not criminals, but rather good neighbors and faithful members of their communities. Budde also quoted scripture, saying that God teaches us to be merciful to the stranger, as we were once strangers in this land.
Trump's Response
Budde's remarks were met with criticism from some quarters, but she has a long history of advocating for justice and equality. In 2020, she published an opinion piece in the New York Times, criticizing Trump's appearance in front of St. John's Episcopal Church, where federal officers had used force to clear a crowd of peaceful protesters.
A Call to Action
Budde's sermon was a call to action, urging Trump to show mercy and compassion to all individuals, regardless of their political background or immigration status. She emphasized that unity requires a degree of mercy, compassion, and understanding, and that it is our responsibility to treat every human being with dignity and respect.