Get to Know Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde

Rev. Mariann Budde: A Trailblazer in Faith and Leadership

Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, an inspiring leader and advocate for justice and compassion, has carved a remarkable path as a prominent voice in the Episcopal Church and the broader faith community. As the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, she is celebrated for her unwavering commitment to inclusivity, social justice, and spiritual renewal.

A Journey of Faith

Mariann Budde’s journey into ministry began with a deep sense of calling. Raised in Minnesota, she grew up in a family that valued faith and service. Her formative years were shaped by a desire to serve others and a recognition of the transformative power of faith. After earning her undergraduate degree at the University of Rochester, she pursued theological studies at Virginia Theological Seminary, where she discovered her passion for ministry.

Ordained as a priest in 1988, Rev. Budde quickly became known for her dedication to building strong, vibrant communities of faith. She served as rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minneapolis for nearly two decades, where she focused on spiritual formation, community engagement, and fostering a sense of belonging.

A Visionary Leader in Washington, D.C.

In 2011, Mariann Budde was elected the first woman to serve as Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington. This historic appointment underscored her reputation as a visionary leader capable of guiding the church into a new era. As bishop, she oversees 88 congregations, schools, and other institutions across the District of Columbia and parts of Maryland.

Under her leadership, the diocese has embraced a mission to be “the body of Christ in the world,” prioritizing social justice, racial reconciliation, and environmental stewardship. Bishop Budde has consistently emphasized the need for the church to engage with the pressing issues of our time, including poverty, inequality, and climate change. Her work reflects a deep belief that faith communities have a critical role to play in creating a more just and compassionate world.

A Voice for Justice and Inclusion

One of Bishop Budde’s defining characteristics is her ability to speak truth to power while remaining deeply rooted in compassion and understanding. She has been a steadfast advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church, racial equity, and gun violence prevention. Her courage and conviction were on full display in 2020 when she spoke out against the misuse of St. John’s Episcopal Church during a controversial political moment, demonstrating her commitment to the values of truth and justice.

Beyond her public advocacy, Rev. Budde is known for her focus on pastoral care and spiritual growth. She encourages individuals and communities to deepen their relationship with God and live out their faith in ways that transform both their lives and the world around them.

Author, Teacher, and Mentor

In addition to her responsibilities as bishop, Rev. Budde is an accomplished author and teacher. Her book, Receiving Jesus: The Way of Love, invites readers into a deeper understanding of faith and discipleship. Through her writing and teaching, she continues to inspire people to embrace the challenges and opportunities of living a life of faith.

As a mentor to clergy and lay leaders alike, Bishop Budde is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of church leaders. She believes that effective leadership requires a balance of humility, courage, and a willingness to listen and learn.

A Legacy of Hope and Renewal

Rev. Mariann Budde’s leadership exemplifies the transformative power of faith in action. Her work reminds us that the church is not just a place of worship but a force for good in the world. Through her dedication to justice, inclusion, and spiritual growth, she has become a beacon of hope for those seeking to live out their faith in meaningful ways.

As she continues to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, Bishop Budde’s legacy is one of renewal and resilience. Her ministry challenges us all to consider how we might contribute to a world that reflects the values of love, justice, and compassion.

Bishop Mariann Budde: Presiding Over a Historic Moment of Healing and Remembrance

On October 26, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde presided over a deeply significant and moving ceremony: the interment of Matthew Shepard’s remains at the Washington National Cathedral. Joining her in this momentous occasion was Reverend V. Gene Robinson, the Episcopal Church’s first openly gay bishop, who was consecrated in 2003. This service marked not only a solemn remembrance of Matthew Shepard’s life but also a powerful testament to the Episcopal Church’s ongoing commitment to justice, inclusion, and healing for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.

Honoring Matthew Shepard’s Legacy

Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old gay college student, became a symbol of the fight against hate crimes after his brutal murder in 1998. His death galvanized a national movement for LGBTQ+ rights, eventually leading to the passage of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act in 2009.

The decision to inter Shepard’s remains at the Washington National Cathedral was made in partnership with his family, who sought a sacred and secure place to honor his memory. The Cathedral, a house of prayer for all people and a beacon of hope and inclusion, was a fitting location for this historic event.

Bishop Budde and Reverend Robinson brought their leadership, compassion, and shared commitment to equality to the ceremony, creating an atmosphere of dignity and reverence. The private interment area within the Cathedral ensures that Shepard’s remains will be protected, offering a place of lasting peace and respect.

A Message of Healing and Inclusion

The service for Matthew Shepard was not merely an act of remembrance but also a call to action and a declaration of faith. Bishop Budde’s leadership in presiding over the service reflects her steadfast dedication to creating a church that welcomes and affirms all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Reverend Robinson’s presence added a powerful dimension to the event, symbolizing the progress made within the Episcopal Church and the broader Christian community toward full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals. Robinson’s own consecration as the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church was a groundbreaking moment in the church’s history, and his participation in this ceremony reinforced the church’s role as a force for justice and love.

A Sacred Space for Reflection

The interment of Matthew Shepard’s remains at the Cathedral carries profound symbolism. While his grave will not be accessible to the public, the decision ensures a private and secure resting place, protecting his memory from potential desecration. This act of care and consideration underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in the face of hate and the importance of sacred spaces where healing and reflection can take place.

Continuing the Work of Justice

Bishop Mariann Budde’s role in this historic event aligns with her broader mission as a leader in the Episcopal Church. She has consistently advocated for LGBTQ+ inclusion, racial reconciliation, and the pursuit of justice within the church and society. Her leadership, alongside Reverend Robinson’s, highlights the transformative power of faith in addressing the wounds of the past and building a more inclusive future.

Matthew Shepard’s interment at the Washington National Cathedral serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the enduring need to honor those whose lives have inspired change. It is a moment of healing, reflection, and recommitment to the work of justice and compassion that defines the heart of the Christian faith.