Mariann Budde, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, delivered a potent sermon at St. John’s Episcopal Church, famously known as the ”Church of the Presidents,” just hours after President Donald Trump’s controversial visit in June 2020. The sermon, which did not explicitly name the president, was a sharp rebuke of the use of force against peaceful protestors demonstrating against racial injustice following the death of George Floyd. Budde, visibly disturbed by the events that had transpired, spoke of the sacredness of the church and its grounds, lamenting their use as a political prop. Her message, however, transcended the immediate political context, reaching towards a deeper plea for empathy and compassion for the most vulnerable members of society. It was a call for moral leadership, contrasting sharply with the display of force that had preceded it.
Budde’s sermon resonated deeply with a nation grappling with the raw wounds of racial inequality and political division. In the wake of George Floyd’s death, protests had erupted across the United States, demanding justice and systemic change. The events at Lafayette Square, where peaceful protestors were forcibly removed to clear a path for Trump’s photo opportunity in front of St. John’s Church, further inflamed tensions. Budde’s words offered a counterpoint to the escalating rhetoric, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to justice. She highlighted the church’s role as a sanctuary for the marginalized and a beacon of hope in times of turmoil. Her sermon became a powerful expression of moral outrage and a call for national reconciliation.
The genesis of Budde’s sermon lay in the confluence of several factors. First and foremost was her deep pastoral concern for her community and the nation. Witnessing the pain and suffering caused by both racial injustice and the heavy-handed response to the protests profoundly affected her. The desecration of sacred ground, the use of tear gas against peaceful protestors, and the blatant disregard for human dignity fueled her moral indignation. Secondly, her understanding of the church’s role in society, as a voice for the voiceless and a champion of justice, compelled her to speak out against what she perceived as a profound moral failing.
The decision to deliver such a pointed message in the presence of the president’s spiritual advisor, who was present at the service, was not taken lightly. Budde recognized the weight of her words and the potential repercussions. However, she felt a moral imperative to speak truth to power, even at the risk of criticism or backlash. Her sermon was not a political attack, but a plea for moral leadership grounded in the principles of love, compassion, and justice. It was a testament to the enduring power of faith to challenge injustice and inspire hope.
The aftermath of the sermon underscored its profound impact. It garnered widespread media attention, both nationally and internationally, amplifying Budde’s message of peace and reconciliation. Her words resonated with many who felt disillusioned and disheartened by the political climate. The sermon became a rallying cry for those seeking justice and a reminder of the importance of moral leadership in times of crisis. It also sparked a broader conversation about the role of faith in public life and the responsibility of religious leaders to speak out against injustice.
In the years following the sermon, Budde has continued to advocate for social justice and to promote interfaith dialogue. She has become a prominent voice in the national conversation about race, religion, and politics. Her experience at St. John’s Church served as a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking truth to power and the enduring relevance of faith in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society. The sermon remains a testament to the power of moral courage and the enduring hope for a better future.
