An Episcopal Church bishop who publicly called on U.S. President Donald Trump to protect immigrants and the LGBT community has received a huge outpouring of support, with over 20,000 letters of encouragement.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, who leads the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, made her appeal during a sermon at the Washington National Cathedral’s Service of Prayer for the Nation, held the day after Trump’s inauguration. She urged the new president to show compassion towards those fearful for their future, particularly in light of his declaration that there are only two genders and his executive orders tightening immigration policies.
Trump responded sharply on his Truth Social platform, branding Bishop Mariann an “ungracious” and “Radical Left hard-line Trump hater” who owed the American people an apology. Some critics questioned whether her remarks were appropriate for a clergy member, arguing that she had overstepped into politics.
However, a wave of support has poured in from those who see Budde’s stance as an act of Christian courage in defence of marginalised communities.
In a video message last week, the bishop expressed her deep gratitude for the encouragement she has received:
“I cannot tell you how much it has meant to me to receive the letters, phone calls, notes, gifts and expressions of gratitude, support and encouragement,” she said.
“I am persuaded that there is a spirit of love and goodness in this land that flows through all of us. And that now is a time for us to stand together, to take courage from one another, and learn together how we are to be brave now and to hold onto the things that are good about us and our country.”
She also encouraged believers to trust that God is at work through His people for the good of society.
The Episcopal Church’s Executive Council has also commended Bishop Mariann for her post-inauguration sermon. However, according to the Episcopal News Service, reactions have been more divided in private correspondence, with some emails expressing anger at her message.
