WATCH: Bishop blasts Trump over transgender rights, ‘mercy’ for illegal immigrants

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde challenged President Donald Trump, urging him to “have mercy” on immigrants and transgender children during an inaugural prayer service at the National Cathedral, a service that is typically non-political.

“There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in both Democratic and Republican families who fear for their lives,” said Budde from the pulpit on Tuesday.

Budde also defended immigrants, saying the “vast majority” are not criminals, and appealed to Trump directly.

“Help those fleeing war zones and persecution find compassion and welcome here,” said Budde.

Trump was seated in the front pew with Vice President JD Vance. 

After the service, Trump told reporters he “didn’t think it was a good service.”

Critics from conservative circles quickly pounced on Budde’s remarks. 

Franklin Graham told Todd Starnes on his radio show that the National Cathedral “has fallen into the hands of LGBT activists” and said the president should avoid it “at all costs.” 

Starnes called Budde a “lady bishop” who preached “hate from her pagan pulpit.” 

Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, tweeted that what was heard “was not a prophetic voice but rather pathetic.”

Budde’s sermon came one day after Trump signed executive orders tightening restrictions on immigration, refugees, and protections for transgender people. 

The orders included defining sex as strictly male or female at conception and halting federal funding for radical gender ideology programs. 

Another directive revoked a policy that limited Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests at places of worship and schools.

In response to Budde’s plea for compassion, Trump posted on Truth Social overnight, calling her remarks “ungracious” and “nasty in tone.” 

Budde later told reporters she felt compelled to address the president because of widespread fear among immigrants and LGBTQ communities. 

“Mercy is one of the qualities of a leader,” said Budde.

“We must be mindful of those who are scared.”

While Trump has attracted support from religious leaders, Budde’s message at the National Cathedral underscored deep divisions over Trump’s transgender rights and immigration policies.