Millions of people from the U.S. and around the world tuned in to witness the inauguration of President Donald Trump. However, it was Bishop Mariann Budde’s sermon that truly captured attention, addressing topics that many found surprising for such an occasion.
In her powerful 15-minute sermon, Bishop Budde made a direct appeal to President Trump. She stated, “Let me make one final plea, Mr. President,” before urging him to show mercy to those fearful for their future. The bishop then emphasized the importance of empathy and compassion. As she looked towards the president, her words carried an unmistakable weight.
She went on to specifically address the LGBTQIA+ community, noting, “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families, some who fear for their lives.” This poignant statement highlighted the real anxiety many felt under Trump’s administration.
Bishop Budde didn’t stop there; she also referenced some of the executive orders Trump had signed. Among them were controversial actions, including recognizing “that women are biologically distinct from men” and declaring a national emergency at the southern border. These policies were central to the bishop’s concerns, which she voiced candidly.
She also focused on the treatment of immigrants, saying, “The people who pick our crops and clean our office buildings, who labor in poultry farms and meat-packing plants… may not be citizens, but they are good neighbors.” Her words painted a vivid picture of the many hardworking individuals affected by immigration policies.
In a final plea, she asked Trump to show mercy on families whose children feared losing their parents due to deportation and to help those fleeing persecution. Her powerful call to compassion echoed across the country.
When President Trump was asked about the sermon, he responded, “I didn’t think it was a good service.” Republican Representative Mike Collins also criticized it, suggesting the bishop should be “added to the deportation list.” This backlash only added to the already intense reaction to the sermon.