Bishop Mariann Budde Urges Mercy for LGBTQ+ People and Migrants at National Cathedral Service
At a national prayer service held at the Washington National Cathedral on January 21, 2025, Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde spoke directly to President Donald Trump with a clear request: “have mercy” on LGBTQ+ individuals and migrants.
Her message followed a series of recent executive orders tied to transgender rights and U.S. immigration policy, which had intensified public debate and concern among affected communities.
After the service, Trump downplayed the sermon, describing it as “not too exciting.” Separately, Elon Musk criticized Budde’s comments on his social media platform, adding to the public reaction surrounding her appeal.
