Staff Reports
In a rather unexpected turn of events, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s sermon recently became the talk of the town, and not in the way one might hope. The clergyperson, who has come to be known as a “woke bishop,” took the opportunity during a mass to deliver what many have deemed a politically charged message aimed at former President Donald Trump. Instead of fostering unity and compassion, the sermon veered into the realm of controversial topics like border control and issues surrounding transgender youth, leaving many parishioners scratching their heads and wondering where the spirit of connection went.
Some critics argue that Budde failed to grasp the primary purpose of the mass, which is to bring the community together and reflect on shared beliefs, rather than to champion a specific political agenda. Given that a mass is a sacred gathering intended for collective worship, many believed that discussions about contemporary social issues should have been left at the door or perhaps handled more subtly. Critics point out that there are appropriate venues for political discourse, but a place of worship shouldn’t necessarily be one of them.
Among the points raised about the sermon was a call for a return to the core teachings of the Bible, which some say are being overlooked. The focus on issues such as gender reassignment surgery for minors sparked backlash. Many argue that this topic is not explicitly found within the pages of scripture. Instead, it seems Budde strayed from a message of compassion that the Bible espouses—especially regarding families suffering losses due to criminal activity associated with illegal immigration.
Supporters of Donald Trump have repeatedly expressed that his stance on immigration aligns with both American values and the spirit of the Statue of Liberty, which welcomes legal immigrants seeking a better life. They argue that Trump’s policies are aimed at ensuring safety and may help foster a secure community where everyone can flourish. Critics of the sermon believe that the emphasis on “compassion” needs to be expanded to include those affected by crime rather than focusing solely on immigrant rights in a politically charged manner.
Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder that even the most revered institutions, like the church, can sometimes get swept up in the currents of modern political debates. Budde, instead of elevating the dialogue, may have left many feeling confused or alienated rather than inspired and connected. In the world of church politics, perhaps it’s time that sermons focus more on faith and community rather than becoming a stage for political theater. The hope remains that in future masses, a spirit of unity can take precedence over division, steering clear of the pitfalls of today’s aggressive political landscape.
