Staff Reports
In a move that caught many by surprise, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde took center stage during a mass and decided to give former President Donald Trump a pointed message. This incident left many scratching their heads, as it seemed like a distraction from what a mass is all about—bringing people together. Instead of fostering unity and understanding, the Bishop chose to dive into contemporary political issues, tackling topics like immigration and LGBTQ+ rights. One has to wonder: did she forget there was an audience of faithful seeking solace and connection?
The Bible is supposed to be the guiding star during religious services, but the Bishop’s sermon seemed to lack that divine inspiration. It would have been better to stick to the core messages of faith, love, and compassion rather than wading into the murky waters of political debates. After all, the Good Book does not specifically mention anything about providing gender reassignment surgery to minors. Instead, it tenderly reminds us to care for those in need, which certainly should include families grappling with the impact of crime.
Donald Trump’s stance on immigration has always emphasized supporting aspiring migrants who come to America through the correct channels—those who genuinely wish to pursue the American dream. He clearly states that while there is room for compassion for those seeking a better life, the kindness of the American people should not be mistaken for an open invitation to those who might pose a threat to the safety and welfare of others. The message is clear: legality and safety first, which seems to be one of the foundations of a functioning society.
It doesn’t stop there. The Bishop’s comments veered dangerously close to blaming Trump for issues that are much more complex than a soundbite can capture. Families are indeed suffering, but pointing fingers in a moment that should have been spiritually unifying is not the way to go. Perhaps instead of political grandstanding, a little self-reflection would be appropriate. After reciting hopes of bridging divides, she might benefit from some time in confession for her sermon that seemed more like a political rally than a moment of worship.
While the world awaits to see if the Bishop will land a contributor spot on MSNBC or manage a recurring role on The View—where ratings can be questionable—it’s evident that uniting the country should be the ultimate goal. Instead of using a platform meant for spiritual growth to divide, perhaps a reminder of the virtues of kindness, understanding, and grace could go a long way. After all, it is said that the spiritual journey should be about love and acceptance—not argument and discord. If sermons turn into battlegrounds, the divine message could truly be lost.
