ML Satyan –
American prelate of the Episcopal Church and Washington’s first woman Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s recent sermon at the Washington National Cathedral has ignited discussions about the role of religious leaders in addressing social justice issues. Budde’s heartfelt plea to President Donald Trump during his inaugural prayer service has gone viral, resonating with many who feel marginalised under his administration.
On January 21, 2025, just a day after Trump assumed office, he attended the traditional prayer service where Budde delivered a powerful message. In her sermon, she implored the president to “have mercy” on vulnerable populations, specifically mentioning LGBTQ+ individuals and undocumented immigrants. “Let me make one final plea, Mr. President,” she began, emphasizing the fear and uncertainty faced by millions in America. She highlighted the plight of gay, lesbian, and transgender children across political lines who are terrified for their safety amid shifting policies.
Budde’s sermon was not merely a routine address; it was a direct confrontation with the new administration’s stance on critical social issues. She reminded Trump that many immigrants contribute positively to society, stating, “They may not be citizens or have the proper documentation, but the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals.” Her words aimed to humanize those often vilified in political discourse and to urge compassion for those fleeing persecution.
The response from Trump was swift and harsh. He took to his Truth Social platform to criticise Budde, calling her a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater” and dismissing her remarks as ungracious and uninspiring. Trump’s comments reflect a broader tension between political leaders and religious figures who challenge their narratives. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed this sentiment, accusing Budde of weaponising her pulpit for political purposes.
Despite the backlash, Budde stood firm in her convictions. In subsequent interviews, she expressed her intention to advocate for those who feel threatened by Trump’s policies. “I wanted to convey that there are people in this nation who are frightened,” she explained. Her plea was not just for Trump but for all leaders to recognise their responsibility toward marginalized communities.
The impact of Budde’s sermon extends beyond American borders, prompting reflections on the role of religious leaders in India too. In recent years, Indian Catholic bishops have faced criticism for their silence on rising violence against Christians and attacks on churches across the country. During Christmas celebrations with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023 and 2024, many did not see bishops pressing these issues directly.
This contrast raises important questions about the courage and accountability of religious leaders in India. Why have Indian bishops not spoken out as boldly as Bishop Budde? What prevents them from addressing the ongoing challenges faced by their communities? Critics argue that their silence reflects a reluctance to confront political power or challenge ideologies that threaten minority rights.
As Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), the Episcopal Conference of the Latin Catholic Church in India, prepares for its own annual plenary meeting of Latin bishops in Bhubaneswar from January 28 to February 4, 2025, there is a growing call for introspection among church leaders. Many wonder whether these gatherings serve any meaningful purpose or if they are merely excursions devoid of real impact on the community. Questions about transparency and accountability loom large as bishops are urged to consider their prophetic ministry seriously.
Bishop Budde’s example serves as a powerful reminder of what it means to be a voice for the voiceless. Her willingness to confront power head-on demonstrates the potential for faith leaders to influence social change. As she stated during her sermon, “Our God teaches us that we are to be merciful to the stranger.” This call for compassion resonates deeply in today’s polarised climate.
The need for Indian bishops to emulate this courage is urgent. They must engage with pressing societal issues and advocate for those marginalised by systemic injustices. The silence surrounding attacks on Christian institutions in India cannot continue; it is time for church leaders to step out of their comfort zones and stand alongside those who suffer.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s sermon has sparked vital conversations about the responsibilities of religious leaders in both America and India. Her boldness in addressing President Trump serves as an inspiring example for Indian bishops who must confront their own challenges with courage and conviction. As they gather for their upcoming plenary meeting, it is imperative that they reflect on their roles as spiritual leaders and advocate for justice in a world that desperately needs compassion and understanding.
Of late, consistent media pressure from prophetic lay Catholic writers, journalists, columnists through widely respected Indian Catholic media platforms has resulted in the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI), which serves as the assembly of the Bishops of the Latin, Syro Malabar, and Syro Malankara sui juris Churches in India, develop some resemblance of a spine in raising issues that affect the Catholic community in India.
Incidentally, Odisha has had a history of attacks on Christian communities, their churches and institutions. As the members of CCBI gather in this region, they have every responsibility to introspect to find out whether they have done enough to protect the Catholics and the Christian community as a whole. They also must examine and see why and how they fail to exercise their prophetic ministry.
Will CCBI take up gauntlet? Only time and media pressure will tell!
I find in India some Christian denomination leaders assert that the now elected American President is chosen by God??
Pope Francis has also cautioned Trump in his message. At the inaugural a Catholic priest and Cardinal also prayed, but they too were measured in their prayer, but an evangelical pastor went overboard in praising Trump.
As for our Indian bishops, past experience shows that they are much too scared, perhaps to protect their vast institutional and financial empires!
Freedom is curtailed in India and if we speak we are punished. But above all we should have backbone to stand up for truth and express it as the Bishop did it. It will make few people to think ones responsibility.