Bishop Mariann Budde recently replied to a brief comment made by Trump after she implored him to show compassion towards the LGBTQ+ community.
The interaction took place during a sermon on Tuesday, January 21, where the bishop openly criticized Trump in front of the congregation.
The church service, part of the inauguration celebrations, saw the attendance of Trump and several family members, including Melania, daughter Tiffany, daughter-in-law Lara, and VP J.D. Vance.
Mariann Budde directly appealed to Trump for mercy, particularly for gay, lesbian, and transgender people. She highlighted that since his administration has taken office, many immigrants have grown fearful due to his deportation policies.
“Mr. President, millions have vested their faith in you. You mentioned yesterday how you have felt guided by the hand of a benevolent God,” Budde stated.
“In God’s name, I implore you to show kindness to those in America who are living in fear. There are children from different political backgrounds who now feel threatened because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
She added, “Those who harvest our crops, maintain our workplaces, labor in poultry farms, and serve in restaurants—even if they’re without documentation—are mostly not criminals.” The bishop asked for open arms for those fleeing war and in desperate need of shelter.
Trump and Vance appeared displeased with Budde’s message and its delivery.
In response, Trump issued a lengthy statement through Truth Social, saying: “The so-called Bishop at the National Prayer Service was a staunch Radical Left Trump critic. She transformed her church event into a political platform in a disrespectful manner.”
He continued, “Her tone was unkind, lacking both intelligence and appeal. She failed to acknowledge the number of unlawful migrants who have committed crimes after entering our country, many coming from prisons and institutions.”
“The service, aside from her inappropriate remarks, was dull and uninspiring. She is not well-suited for her role! Her church owes the public an apology,” Trump declared.
In an interview with CNN, Budde responded: “My aim was a gentle reminder to everyone that those living in fear in our country are indeed humans, and during the political campaign, they were often depicted unfavorably.”
She expressed, “I spoke to the president recognizing the power he feels to act upon his convictions. I wanted to convey there’s always space for empathy, for a deeper compassion.”
The bishop emphasized, “Portraying vulnerable groups harshly isn’t necessary when they are, in fact, our neighbors and friends.”
