‘Desperate’: Pastors, conservatives lambaste Episcopal bishop for ‘weaponizing’ the pulpit against Trump

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington is facing criticism from fellow pastors and social media users after delivering a sermon at the National Prayer Service attended by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The sermon, which touched on issues of LGBTQ rights and immigration, has been labeled as divisive and inappropriate by some.

During the service at the Washington National Cathedral, Bishop Budde called on Trump to show mercy to gay, lesbian, and transgender children who allegedly fear for their lives. She also urged compassion towards undocumented immigrants living in the United States, emphasizing that the majority of immigrants are not criminals.

Critics, including Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk and Catholic Vote, have accused Bishop Budde of politicizing the pulpit and promoting a liberal agenda instead of fostering unity. They argue that her sermon was more fitting for a political rally than a religious service.

Pastor and former NFL star Jack Brewer expressed his disappointment with Bishop Budde’s sermon, describing it as a manifestation of the left’s efforts to push divisive ideologies. He called for a return to biblical truths and criticized the bishop for promoting a secular worldview.

Similarly, Pastor Rob Pacienza of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and founder of the Institute for Faith and Culture condemned Bishop Budde’s sermon as a departure from biblical teachings. He emphasized the importance of unity through a commitment to God’s truth rather than cultural assimilation.

Chicago Pastor Corey Brooks questioned why Bishop Budde did not extend the same call for mercy to LGBTQ children and immigrants during the previous administration. He criticized her for what he perceived as a lack of consistency in her message and accused her of promoting ideological malpractice.

Critics on social media, including country music artist John Rich, echoed similar sentiments and cited scripture to highlight their disapproval of Bishop Budde’s sermon. President Trump also demanded an apology from the bishop, describing her tone as “nasty” and calling for accountability from her and her church.

In response to the backlash, Bishop Budde defended her sermon, stating that she was speaking directly to President Trump and aiming to remind him and the congregation of the humanity of marginalized groups. She emphasized the importance of compassion and understanding in addressing societal issues.

The controversy surrounding Bishop Budde’s sermon highlights the ongoing tension between religious leaders and political figures in the United States. As debates over social issues continue to divide the nation, the role of the church in promoting unity and compassion remains a topic of contention.