We, the undersigned, respectfully call upon the Episcopal Church and the governing bodies of the Washington National Cathedral to take immediate action regarding the recent comments made by Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, which we believe undermine her ability to serve as a leader who fosters unity and inclusivity within the Church.

Bishop Budde, as the spiritual leader of 86 Episcopal congregations and ten Episcopal schools in the District of Columbia and surrounding Maryland counties, holds a position of profound influence. In her capacity as chair of the Protestant Episcopal Cathedral Foundation, she also oversees the ministries of the Washington National Cathedral and its associated schools. These roles require a steadfast commitment to making the Church a house of worship for all people, regardless of political beliefs.

On January 21st, Bishop Budde delivered a sermon that, in our view, blatantly violated the principle of impartiality essential to her position. Her comments risk alienating members of her congregations and the broader community by introducing political bias into the sacred space of worship. As a spiritual leader, she is called to unite, not divide, and to create an environment where individuals of all political perspectives feel welcome and valued.

Given the gravity of this matter, we respectfully petition for one of the following actions:

1.  That Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde voluntarily resign from her position to uphold the integrity of the Episcopal Church and its mission to serve as a house of prayer for all people.

2.  That the Episcopal Church and the governing bodies of the Washington National Cathedral undertake a thorough review of Bishop Budde’s conduct and consider her removal if it is determined that her actions are incompatible with the standards of her office.

This petition is not made lightly but out of a deep concern for the future of the Episcopal Church and its mission to transcend political divisions, providing spiritual guidance and refuge for all. We believe that this action is necessary to restore trust, foster unity, and reaffirm the Church’s role as a sanctuary for every member of its community.

We pray for wisdom and discernment for all those involved in addressing this matter and for the continued flourishing of the Episcopal Church and its ministries.