In the murky world of politics, where power often overshadows morality, few voices stand unwaveringly for truth and justice. One such voice is Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, whose courageous and principled stance during Donald Trump’s presidency offers a masterclass in moral leadership. Her ability to speak truth to power, even in the face of backlash, provides an example that African pastors—especially those in Nigeria—should reflect upon and emulate.
As leaders who wield tremendous influence in shaping societal values and guiding communities, religious figures have a duty to hold those in power accountable. Yet, far too often, many African pastors are complicit in their silence or, worse, in their endorsement of unjust leadership. Bishop Budde’s actions remind us of the vital role faith leaders must play in society.
The First Incident: George Floyd Protests and Trump’s Photo-Op
Bishop Budde first gained national and international attention in June 2020, during the protests following the tragic killing of George Floyd. Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police officers sparked nationwide demonstrations against racial injustice and police brutality. During this period of unrest, Trump staged a controversial photo-op in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church, near the White House.
To prepare for the photo-op, federal authorities forcefully dispersed peaceful protesters from Lafayette Square using tear gas, flash-bangs, and rubber bullets. Protesters had gathered to demand justice for George Floyd and to call for systemic reforms to address police violence. Trump, holding a Bible aloft in front of the church, used the scene to project an image of strength and control amid the protests.
Bishop Budde, whose diocese oversees St. John’s Church, publicly condemned Trump’s actions. She stated, “The president used a Bible, the most sacred text of the Judeo-Christian tradition, and one of the churches of my diocese, without permission, as a backdrop for a message antithetical to the teachings of Jesus.” Her rebuke highlighted Trump’s disregard for the sacredness of the space and the suffering of the protesters. She emphasized that the values of the Christian faith—justice, mercy, and humility—were incompatible with the use of force against peaceful demonstrators.
Trump’s actions were widely criticized, not only by faith leaders like Bishop Budde but also by civil rights activists and constitutional scholars. His decision to use violence to stage a political photo-op reflected a troubling disregard for democratic principles and human rights.
The National Prayer Service Incident
Fast forward to January 2025, during a National Prayer Service that Trump attended. Bishop Budde once again used her platform to challenge the former president on issues of compassion and justice. During her remarks, she addressed systemic discrimination and the fears faced by marginalized groups in America. Speaking directly to Trump, she said, “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families — some who fear for their lives.”
She continued, “I ask you to have mercy, Mr. President, on those in our communities whose children fear their parents will be taken away, and that you help those who are fleeing war zones and persecution in their own lands to find compassion and welcome here.”
Her comments were a direct appeal for Trump to show empathy and address the concerns of vulnerable groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrant families, and refugees. Rather than engaging constructively, Trump took to social media to launch a personal attack on Budde, calling her a “Radical Left hard-line Trump hater” and accusing her of being “nasty in tone” and “not compelling or smart.” He even demanded an apology from Budde and her church, claiming she had disrespected him.
Trump’s Response and Why It Misses the Mark
Trump’s reaction to both incidents reemphasizes his inability to handle criticism constructively or engage in meaningful dialogue. Rather than addressing the substance of Budde’s remarks, he resorted to personal attacks, which detracted from the important issues she raised. Legally and ethically, Bishop Budde was well within her rights to criticize Trump’s actions. As the Bishop of Washington, she had every right to speak out against the misuse of her sacred space. Furthermore, her comments during the National Prayer Service were not personal attacks but a call for compassion and justice.
Under the First Amendment of the U.S.
Constitution, Bishop Budde’s speech is protected, especially since her critiques were rooted in factual events and moral principles. Trump’s demand for an apology is not only unwarranted but also indicative of a leadership style that prioritizes ego over accountability.
Acknowledging Trump’s Policies
While Trump’s leadership often sparked controversy, it is important to acknowledge that some of his policies resonated with many Americans. For instance, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reduced corporate tax rates from 35% to 21%, stimulating business growth and job creation. His administration’s focus on renegotiating trade deals and prioritizing American manufacturing also appealed to many working-class voters.
Read also: Trump Escalates Efforts Against Diversity, Immigration
However, these achievements are overshadowed by his impulsive decision-making and failure to lead with empathy and restraint. Leadership is not only about implementing policies but also about uniting people and addressing their concerns with fairness and humanity. Trump’s tendency to lash out at critics and disregard the principles of law and morality undermined his ability to lead effectively.
Why African Pastors Should Emulate Bishop Budde
Bishop Budde’s courage and moral clarity offer valuable lessons for African pastors, particularly those in Nigeria, where the church’s influence is immense. Too often, Nigerian pastors align themselves with political leaders, offering prayers and endorsements without holding them accountable for corruption, oppression, and poor governance. This silence perpetuates systemic issues such as poverty, election malpractice, and police brutality.
1. Speaking Truth to Power
African pastors must prioritize justice and accountability over personal alliances with political elites. During Nigeria’s #EndSARS protests in 2020, which called for an end to police brutality, many prominent religious leaders remained silent. A Budde-like intervention could have amplified the protesters’ voices and pressured the government to enact meaningful reforms.
2. Defending the Vulnerable
The Bible emphasizes the importance of standing with the marginalized. Isaiah 1:17 states, “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” Bishop Budde’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and refugees is a powerful example of this principle in action. Nigerian pastors must similarly defend the poor, displaced, and marginalized in their communities.
3. Reclaiming the Church’s Role
The church should serve as a moral compass, not as a tool of political propaganda. By challenging oppressive policies and advocating for systemic reform, pastors can restore the church’s credibility as a force for social change.
Conclusively, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s principled stands during the George Floyd protests and the National Prayer Service highlight the importance of moral leadership. Her willingness to challenge Trump’s actions, rooted in her faith and commitment to justice, is a lesson for all leaders—religious and political alike.
For African pastors, particularly in Nigeria, Budde’s example is a wake-up call. Leadership is not about proximity to power but about holding power accountable and advocating for the oppressed. Silence in the face of injustice is complicity, and the church must reclaim its role as a voice for the voiceless.
By speaking truth to power, defending the vulnerable, and demanding accountability, African pastors can inspire real change and build societies rooted in justice, compassion, and humanity. As Bishop Budde has shown, leadership is about courage, integrity, and a commitment to the greater good—qualities that the church must embody now more than ever.
