Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde is a trailblazing leader in the Episcopal Church, making history as the first female bishop of Washington. Her journey is one of faith, leadership, and advocacy. Here are ten key facts about her remarkable life and career.
10 Facts About Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde
1. She Made History as the First Female Bishop of Washington
In 2011, Mariann Edgar Budde was elected as the ninth bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, becoming the first woman to hold the position. Her election marked a significant milestone for the church, reflecting a broader movement toward inclusivity and diversity in religious leadership.
Her leadership has been characterized by a commitment to both tradition and progress. She has worked to ensure that the Episcopal Church remains relevant in modern times, balancing the needs of longtime parishioners with those seeking a more contemporary approach to faith. Under her guidance, the diocese has embraced change while maintaining its core spiritual mission.
2. She Was Born and Raised in New Jersey
Mariann Edgar Budde grew up in Ridgefield, New Jersey. Her early years were shaped by her faith and a strong sense of service, which eventually led her to pursue a calling in the church.
Her upbringing in a small town instilled in her a deep appreciation for community and personal relationships. She often credits her early experiences in New Jersey with shaping her approach to ministry, which emphasizes connection, listening, and pastoral care.
3. She Studied at the University of Rochester and Virginia Theological Seminary
Before entering the ministry, Budde earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester. She later pursued theological studies at Virginia Theological Seminary, where she earned her Master of Divinity degree.
Her time at these institutions not only deepened her theological knowledge but also exposed her to different perspectives on faith, leadership, and social justice. She emerged from her studies with a strong commitment to making the church a welcoming space for all.
4. She Served as a Parish Priest for Nearly Two Decades
Before becoming a bishop, Mariann Edgar Budde served as the rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for 18 years. Under her leadership, the parish flourished, growing both in numbers and community impact.
Her tenure in Minnesota allowed her to develop her pastoral skills and understand the complexities of leading a congregation. She focused on outreach programs, interfaith dialogue, and community-building initiatives that strengthened the church’s role in the local area.
5. She Is an Advocate for Social Justice
Throughout her career, Budde has been a vocal advocate for social justice. She has spoken out on issues such as racial equality, immigration reform, and gun violence prevention, emphasizing the church’s role in addressing societal challenges.
Her advocacy extends beyond speeches—she has actively participated in marches, policy discussions, and interfaith collaborations to promote justice and equity. She believes that faith must be lived out in action and that the church has a duty to stand with marginalized communities.
6. She Gained National Attention During a Controversial Moment in 2020
In June 2020, during nationwide protests, then-President Donald Trump staged a photo opportunity in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C., without prior consultation with church leadership. Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde publicly denounced the event, stating that the church did not endorse the message conveyed. Her firm stance on the issue garnered national attention.
Her response demonstrated her commitment to protecting the integrity of the church and advocating for justice. She emphasized that places of worship should be spaces of peace and reconciliation, not political staging grounds.
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7. She Is the Author of a Book on Church Growth and Leadership
Budde authored the book Gathering the Next Generation: A Guide for Episcopal Churches and Their Leaders, where she shares insights on church revitalization and leadership in changing times.
In this book, she addresses the challenges facing contemporary churches, from declining membership to shifting cultural landscapes. She offers practical advice on engaging younger generations, fostering vibrant congregations, and navigating leadership transitions with grace and wisdom.
