Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde Urges President Trump to Show Mercy to LGBTQ+ Individuals and Migrants

At the inaugural prayer service, Right Rev Mariann Budde, the Episcopal bishop of Washington, directly appealed to US President Donald Trump. She urged him to show compassion towards the LGBTQ+ community and undocumented migrant workers. Budde referenced Trump's belief that God saved him from assassination, saying, "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."

The Trump administration had already issued executive orders reversing transgender rights and tightening immigration policies. When Trump returned to the White House, he was asked about the sermon. He remarked, "Not too exciting, was it," as he walked with staff toward the Oval Office. He added, "I didn’t think it was a good service. They could do much better."

Focus on National Unity

The service at Washington National Cathedral primarily centred on national unity. Trump and Vice President JD Vance attended with their families, along with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth. Budde stated they gathered to pray for unity as a people and a nation—not for agreement politically or otherwise—but for unity that fosters community across diversity and division. She emphasized, "Unity is not partisan."

More than a dozen religious leaders participated in the interfaith service, representing Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions. Conservative evangelicals were notably absent from those invited to speak, despite being among Trump's strongest supporters. However, some evangelical supporters were present in the pews.

Evangelical Presence

Among those attending were Robert Jeffress, a long-time Trump supporter and pastor of Dallas First Baptist Church; Paula White-Cain, a televangelist and key spiritual adviser during Trump's first term; and Lorenzo Sewell, pastor of Detroit's 180 Church who gave a spirited benediction at Monday's inauguration.

The Washington National Cathedral has hosted 10 official inaugural prayer services for presidents from both parties since 1933. This year's service differed from previous ones by focusing on the nation rather than the new administration—a decision made before Election Day.

A New Approach

Very Rev Randy Hollerith, dean of the Episcopal cathedral, stated in October that "We are in a unique moment in our country's history, and it is time to approach this differently." The service aimed to be for all Americans, focusing on the well-being of the nation and democracy.

The texts and songs revolved around themes of compassion and togetherness. A reading from Deuteronomy 10:17-21 was included, which speaks of caring for orphans, widows, and all in need.

Sermons at inaugural services have often been delivered by ministers aligned with the incoming administration. In 2021, Rev William Barber, a progressive civil rights leader, preached before President Joe Biden at the cathedral.

Budde has previously criticised Trump alongside other cathedral leaders. They rebuked his racialised rhetoric and blamed him for inciting violence on January 6, 2021. Budde expressed outrage in 2020 when Trump staged an appearance in front of St John's Episcopal Church near the White House while holding up a Bible after clearing peaceful protesters from the area.