Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde's sermon at the National Prayer Service, attended by President Trump and Vice President Vance, drew heavy criticism for its focus on social issues and direct appeals to Trump. Critics accused her of 'weaponizing' the pulpit and promoting a secular agenda instead of unity.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, faced intense criticism for her sermon delivered during the National Prayer Service attended by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. While the service, a longstanding tradition following presidential inaugurations at the Washington National Cathedral, aimed to foster unity, Budde's address sparked controversy by focusing on social issues and directly addressing Trump and Vance.
Budde urged Trump to 'have mercy' on gay, lesbian, and transgender children, claiming they 'fear for their lives.' She also spoke about undocumented immigrants, stating that although they may lack citizenship or proper documentation, the 'vast majority of immigrants are not criminals.' These remarks drew visible displeasure from Trump and Vance, with Trump averting his gaze and Vance casting a glance at Trump. Budde's sermon was met with strong disapproval from conservative figures and pastors who accused her of 'weaponizing' the pulpit and promoting a secular worldview instead of a message of unity. Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, criticized Budde on X (formerly Twitter), calling her sermon an 'embarrassment' and stating that she should have promoted a Christian message rather than delivering a lecture that mirrored CNN or The View. Catholic Vote, a conservative nonprofit, also condemned Budde, alleging that she 'weaponized' her sermon to attack Trump and Vance by calling for 'mercy' towards LGBTQ+ children. Other critics, including pastors Jack Brewer and Rob Pacienza, condemned Budde's sermon, accusing her of promoting 'wokeness' and heresy. Pastor Corey Brooks questioned Budde's selective focus, wondering why she didn't address these issues during the previous administration. He further criticized the sermon's emphasis on social issues, arguing that compassion should prioritize citizens first and foremost.
DONALD TRUMP VICE PRESIDENT NATIONAL PRAYER SERVICE BISHOP MARIANN EDGAR BUDDE LGBTQ RIGHTS IMMIGRATION SOCIAL ISSUES CHURCH CONSERVATISM BACKLASH
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Bishop Urges Trump to Show 'Mercy' in Sermon at National Prayer ServiceDuring the traditional post-inauguration national prayer service at Washington National Cathedral, Episcopal Washington Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde delivered a sermon urging President Trump to find humility and show 'mercy' on those 'scared' by his power. Budde called for national unity based on honoring the dignity of every human being, honesty, and humility.
Read more »
Melania Trump and Usha Vance Attend National Prayer Service in Conservative StylesPresident Donald Trump and his family attended the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral, marking the end of his official inaugural events. Melania Trump chose a black Prada coat and Roger Vivier pumps for the occasion, while Usha Vance opted for a more traditional ivory blouse and skirt.
Read more »
Bishop Urges Trump to Show Mercy in National Prayer ServiceBishop Mariann Edgar Budde made a passionate plea for President Donald Trump to show mercy on marginalized groups during the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral.
Read more »
Trump Criticizes National Prayer Service, Calling It 'Not Too Exciting'President Donald Trump attended the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral, where he received a sermon urging him to show 'mercy' towards LGBTQ people and immigrants. Despite the service's message of inclusivity, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction, calling it 'not too exciting' and 'not a good service.'
Read more »
Trump Criticizes National Prayer Service Sermon, Calls It 'Not Too Exciting'President Donald Trump criticized the sermon delivered by the Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde at the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral, calling it 'not too exciting' and 'not a good service.' Budde's sermon directly addressed Trump, urging him to show mercy towards LGBTQ people and immigrants.
Read more »
Bishop Asks Trump for 'Mercy' on Migrants During National Prayer ServiceDuring a National Prayer Service, a Democratic bishop directly addressed President Trump, urging him to show compassion towards migrants, refugees, and members of the LGBTQ community. Trump, seated in the front row, responded with a dismissive remark.
Read more »