Mariann Edgar Budde is the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, a prominent religious leader known for her advocacy for social justice, inclusion, and equality. As the first woman to serve as the diocesan bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, she oversees the spiritual and administrative functions of the diocese, which includes the iconic Washington National Cathedral and over 80 parishes in the region.
Background and Ministry
Budde was born in 1959 and raised in a devout Catholic family in New Jersey. She later joined the Episcopal Church, drawn by its emphasis on inclusivity and progressive theology. Budde earned her Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Virginia Theological Seminary. She served as a parish priest in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for nearly two decades before being elected Bishop of Washington in 2011.
Advocacy and Leadership
Throughout her career, Bishop Budde has been a vocal advocate for various social causes, including racial reconciliation, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigration reform. She is known for her compassionate leadership style and her ability to address complex societal issues from a faith-based perspective.
The Plea to Trump
Bishop Budde gained national attention in June 2020 during the protests following George Floyd's killing. After then-President Donald Trump posed for a photo in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church near the White House, holding a Bible, Budde publicly criticized his actions. She expressed dismay over the use of tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters for the photo opportunity and emphasized that the message of the Bible stands for unity, justice, and peace—not division or political posturing.
In her public plea, Budde urged Trump to lead with integrity and compassion, calling on him to use his platform to heal the nation's wounds rather than exacerbate divisions. Her remarks resonated with many Americans and highlighted the role of faith leaders in holding public figures accountable.
Legacy and Impact
Mariann Edgar Budde continues to inspire through her commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges. Her actions reflect a deep belief in the transformative power of faith to foster understanding and unity in a divided world.
Her Role as Bishop
As the Bishop of Washington, Budde oversees the Episcopal churches in Washington, D.C., and parts of Maryland. Her responsibilities include spiritual leadership, administrative oversight, and representing the church in civic and interfaith dialogues. She also presides over the Washington National Cathedral, a historic site often associated with major national events.
Budde’s tenure as bishop has been characterized by her unwavering commitment to progressive causes, including:
- Racial justice: Advocating for racial reconciliation within the church and society.
- LGBTQ+ inclusion: Supporting same-sex marriage and affirming the full participation of LGBTQ+ individuals in the church.
- Immigration reform: Speaking out against policies that marginalize immigrants and refugees.
- Gun violence prevention: Calling for stricter gun control laws to curb violence.
Her Plea to Trump in 2020
In June 2020, following the killing of George Floyd, protests erupted nationwide, demanding racial justice and police accountability. During these protests, then-President Donald Trump walked to St. John’s Episcopal Church, located across from the White House, for a photo opportunity. Holding a Bible, he posed in front of the church, which had suffered minor fire damage during the protests.
The event became highly controversial because federal law enforcement officers had forcibly cleared peaceful demonstrators from Lafayette Square using tear gas and rubber bullets to facilitate Trump's walk to the church.
Bishop Budde, as the spiritual leader of the diocese that includes St. John’s Church, responded swiftly and forcefully. In a televised interview, she condemned the use of the church and the Bible as "prop props" in what she called a political stunt. She expressed her deep dismay, stating:
“The Bible is not an instrument of division. It is a book of justice, mercy, and reconciliation. It should not be used to promote anything other than the love of God and the values of our faith.”
Budde also called on Trump to use his position to unite the country during a time of widespread pain and unrest. Her plea resonated widely, bringing attention to the role of religious leaders in advocating for ethical leadership and social justice.
Public Reaction
Budde’s remarks drew both praise and criticism. Many lauded her courage and moral clarity, seeing her as a voice for justice in a turbulent time. Others, particularly Trump’s supporters, criticized her for what they viewed as unwarranted political interference by a religious figure.
Despite the polarized responses, Budde remained steadfast, emphasizing that her critique was not partisan but rooted in her responsibility as a faith leader to uphold the values of compassion, humility, and justice.
Legacy and Continued Advocacy
Bishop Budde’s actions during this pivotal moment in American history underscored the importance of faith leaders in holding those in power accountable. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to the principles of the Gospel, particularly the call to stand with the oppressed and advocate for justice.
Beyond the 2020 incident, Budde continues to lead efforts within the Episcopal Church to engage with societal challenges, fostering dialogue and action on issues such as climate change, systemic racism, and economic inequality.
Conclusion
Mariann Edgar Budde is more than just a bishop; she is a beacon of moral leadership and a voice for justice in an often-divided world. Her plea to Trump in 2020 highlighted the enduring role of faith leaders in shaping public discourse and addressing the moral and ethical dimensions of political actions. Through her ministry, Budde exemplifies the power of faith to inspire meaningful change and to call for accountability in the pursuit of a more just and compassionate society.