Detroit pastor Lorenzo Sewell expressed strong disapproval of Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde's prayer at the National Prayer Service, which he attended alongside President Donald Trump. Sewell characterized the bishop's remarks as "theological malpractice," taking issue with what he perceived as politically charged sentiments.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Sewell, pastor of 180 Church in Detroit, argued that Budde's address deviated from scriptural principles by publicly challenging a leader in authority. He contended that her words reflected a trend within Christian tradition of assuming the right to address those in power without proper reverence.
Left: President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office; Right: Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde delivers a sermon at the National Prayer Service. (Left: Jim Lo Scalzo/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images; Right: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Budde, known for her past criticism of Trump, initially focused on unity in her prayer. However, she shifted her attention to immigrants and LGBTQ+ youth, directly addressing the president with a plea for mercy and understanding towards these groups. Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance appeared visibly uncomfortable during her address. Budde also emphasized the contributions of immigrants, highlighting their tax payments, neighborly conduct, and active participation in religious communities.
Pastor Lorenzo Sewell delivers a benediction after President Trump's swearing-in. (Saul Loeb/Pool photo via AP)
Sewell, present at the service with the first family, described Budde's prayer as driven by a "political agenda." He criticized her for not focusing on scriptural themes of death and resurrection, instead promoting specific political viewpoints as if speaking on behalf of God. He felt she overstepped her bounds by addressing the president in such a manner.
Sewell advocated for educating faith communities and suggested that a more productive approach would have been to propose collaborative solutions between church and state on issues like immigration. He also shared his experience of praying for the nation after Trump's inauguration, which coincided with Martin Luther King Jr. Day. He highlighted the significance of the occasion and connected his prayer to both prophetic and practical aspirations for the new administration. Sewell revealed that Trump personally requested him to pray at the inauguration.
Pastor Lorenzo Sewell speaks at the Republican National Convention. (REUTERS/Brian Snyder)
A Republican and Trump supporter, Sewell previously spoke at the Republican National Convention and endorsed Trump in the 2024 election. He also hosted the then-candidate at his church in Detroit.
