President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance appeared visibly irritated during the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday. The sermon, delivered by Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde, took a political turn as she directly addressed the administration’s policies on immigration and LGBTQ issues, drawing attention to divisions in national discourse.
Budde, of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, spoke on unity and community but included pointed remarks aimed at the president. She appealed for compassion for immigrants, LGBTQ individuals, and others she described as vulnerable in current political climates. Addressing Trump directly, she said, “In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy on the people in our country who are scared.”
— AmericanFaith (@americanfaith) January 21, 2025
BREAKING: President Trump and VP Vance attended the National Prayer Service only to be blindsided by an overtly weaponized political sermon. pic.twitter.com/dGY8jruS0O
She highlighted the contributions of immigrants to the U.S. economy and their role as faithful members of religious communities, urging the president to help those fleeing war zones find safety and compassion. Budde also called for respect across political differences, emphasizing the importance of community and human dignity in public life.
Trump’s inaugural address the day prior stood in stark contrast, asserting that “there are two genders, male and female” and promising policies focused on a merit-based, colorblind society. Trump also signed an executive order ending birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants, alongside plans for mass deportations of criminal illegal aliens.
Budde’s history of political activism includes criticism of Trump’s handling of racial and social justice issues. She was outspoken during the George Floyd protests and condemned Trump’s 2020 photo op outside St. John’s Church, accusing him of misusing religious symbols for political gain.
The sermon underlined the deep divisions within American society. While Budde called for unity that respects differences, her pointed critiques of the administration’s policies sparked visible discomfort among the nation’s leaders. Trump’s return to St. John’s Church on Monday, before taking the oath of office, underscored the symbolic significance of his second term to supporters and critics alike.
