Bishop Mariann Budde Urges Trump to “Have Mercy” on LGBTQ+ People and Migrants
At a national prayer service held at Washington National Cathedral on January 21, 2025, Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde delivered a pointed message to President Donald Trump. Speaking directly to him from the pulpit, she pleaded with the president to “have mercy” on LGBTQ+ communities and migrants.
Her comments followed a series of recent executive orders impacting transgender rights and tightening U.S. immigration policy, which had sparked widespread concern among advocacy groups and faith leaders.
In response, President Trump later brushed off the sermon, describing it as “not too exciting.” Elon Musk also weighed in, using his social media platform to criticize Bishop Budde’s remarks.
