The inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States drew millions of viewers from across the globe. Among the many events marking the occasion, a sermon delivered during the inaugural prayer service at Washington’s National Cathedral has become a focal point of discussion. Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde’s remarks were both surprising and provocative, addressing topics that many didn’t expect to hear in such a setting.
During her 15-minute sermon, Bishop Budde directly addressed President Trump with a series of pointed appeals. Toward the end of her sermon, she said, “Let me make one final plea, Mr. President. Millions have put their trust in you. And as you told the nation yesterday, 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.” At this moment, she appeared to direct her gaze toward the president.
Budde didn’t shy away from addressing the concerns of marginalized groups. She spoke of gay, lesbian, and transgender children across the nation who, she noted, “fear for their lives.” Her remarks seemed to acknowledge the anxiety within the LGBTQIA+ community regarding Trump’s administration.
The sermon came a day after Trump issued a series of executive orders that have already sparked controversy. Among these were orders recognizing biological distinctions between men and women, declaring a national emergency at the southern border, and rescinding birthright citizenship. Budde addressed these actions head-on, speaking about the contributions of immigrants to the country.
