In a fervent display of compassion, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde has made headlines following her heartfelt sermon at the National Cathedral, where she called on President Donald Trump to "have mercy upon" LGBTQ children and immigrants. Despite Trump's scathing response branding her a "Radical Left hard line Trump hater," Budde has maintained her stance, declaring, "I am not going to apologize for asking for mercy for others" in her interviews with Time and NPR.

During the inaugural prayer service on Tuesday, Budde implored Trump to consider the fears of vulnerable communities, stating, "There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families, some who fear for their lives." Her plea highlighted the essential humanity of immigrants, emphasizing that "the vast majority are not criminals" and serve as "good neighbors" in society.

Trump, however, reacted vehemently, criticizing Budde's remarks on Truth Social, stating that the service was "uninspiring" and demanding an apology from Budde and her church. Other GOP members joined the chorus, with Representative Mike Collins controversially suggesting that Budde should be "added to the deportation list," despite her status as a U.S. citizen.

Budde held firm in her message, expressing her desire for more compassionate and understanding discussions around immigration and LGBTQ issues. She articulated her intention to highlight the need for "mercy, compassion, and empathy," pointing out that "to be united as a country with so many riches of diversity, we need mercy."

Despite the backlash, Budde conveyed she does not hate Trump, stating, "I strive not to hate anyone" and adding, "It was a pretty mild sermon." Her hope remains that her call for dignity resonates with people, as she continues to advocate for humanitarian values within the current sociopolitical climate. "The culture of contempt is threatening to destroy us," Budde warned, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue amidst polarizing viewpoints.

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