Bishop Budde Urges Compassion for Vulnerable Groups Amid Trump Criticism

During a recent prayer service at the National Cathedral, Bishop Mariann Budde addressed President Trump, urging him to show mercy towards vulnerable communities, including immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals. Her sermon, which highlighted the fears faced by these groups, sparked controversy, with Trump responding negatively, labeling her remarks as 'nasty' and demanding an apology. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Budde's sermon, accusing her of 'weaponizing' the pulpit instead of offering a unifying message. Budde defended her comments as rooted in Christian teachings and expressed no intention of apologizing. The exchange has drawn attention to the ongoing cultural and political divides in the U.S., with both sides interpreting the sermon through their respective lenses. The incident underscores the tension between religious leaders' calls for compassion and the responses from political figures who view such messages as partisan.