Mariann Edgar Budde: Bishop of Washington
Quick Information Table
| Full Name | Mariann Edgar Budde (née Mariann Edgar) |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 10, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Summit, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Profession | Episcopal Bishop |
| Current Position | Bishop of Washington |
| Spouse | Paul Budde (m. 1986) |
| Children | Two sons |
| Education | University of Rochester (BA); Virginia Theological Seminary (MDiv, DMin) |
| Nationality | American |
Early Life and Education
Mariann Edgar Budde was born on December 10, 1959, in Summit, New Jersey, to Ann Björkman, a Swedish-American, and William Edgar. She spent her early years in the Flanders section of Mount Olive Township, New Jersey, attending West Morris Mount Olive High School. Following her parents’ divorce, she also lived in Colorado.
In 1982, Budde graduated magna cum laude from the University of Rochester with a Bachelor of Arts in History. She pursued theological studies at the Virginia Theological Seminary, earning a Master of Divinity in 1989 and later a Doctor of Ministry in 2008.
Ordination and Early Ministry
Budde was ordained as a deacon on May 28, 1988, and as a priest on March 4, 1989. She began her ministry serving in various capacities within the Episcopal Church, demonstrating a commitment to pastoral care and community engagement.
Leadership at St. John’s Episcopal Church
For 18 years, Budde served as the rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. During her tenure, she focused on congregational growth, social justice initiatives, and fostering a welcoming community for all. Her leadership was marked by an emphasis on inclusivity and spiritual development.
Bishop of Washington
On June 18, 2011, Budde was elected as the Bishop of Washington, becoming the first woman to hold this position. She was consecrated on November 12, 2011, by Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori. In this role, she serves as the spiritual leader for 86 Episcopal congregations and ten Episcopal schools in the District of Columbia and parts of Maryland. She also chairs the Protestant Episcopal Cathedral Foundation, overseeing the ministries of the Washington National Cathedral and its affiliated schools.
Publications
Budde is an accomplished author, contributing to theological discourse through her writings. Her notable works include:
- Gathering Up The Fragments: Preaching as Spiritual Practice (2009): This book explores the art of preaching and its role in spiritual life.
- Receiving Jesus: The Way of Love (2019): With a foreword by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, this work delves into the practices of Christian faith and discipleship.
- How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith (2023): In this publication, Budde reflects on courage and faith in the face of life’s challenges.
Personal Life
Mariann Budde married Paul Budde in 1986, and together they have two sons. She balances her responsibilities as a bishop with her roles as a wife and mother, often speaking about the importance of family and faith in her life.
Recognition and Honors
In 2012, Budde was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from the Virginia Theological Seminary, recognizing her contributions to the Episcopal Church and her leadership within the religious community.
FAQs About Mariann Edgar Budde
Q: What is Mariann Edgar Budde known for?
A: She is known for being the first woman elected as the Bishop of Washington in the Episcopal Church and for her leadership in promoting inclusivity and social justice within the church.
Q: What are some of her notable publications?
A: Her notable works include Gathering Up The Fragments: Preaching as Spiritual Practice, Receiving Jesus: The Way of Love, and How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith.
Q: What educational background does she have?
A: Budde holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Rochester and both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from the Virginia Theological Seminary.
Q: How long did she serve at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minneapolis?
A: She served as rector for 18 years before becoming the Bishop of Washington.
Q: What is her role in the Washington National Cathedral?
A: As the Bishop of Washington, she serves as the chair of the Protestant Episcopal Cathedral Foundation, overseeing the ministries of the Washington National Cathedral and its affiliated schools.
Conclusion
Mariann Edgar Budde’s journey from her early life in New Jersey to becoming the first female Bishop of Washington is a testament to her dedication, faith, and leadership. Throughout her ministry, she has emphasized the importance of inclusivity, social justice, and spiritual growth. Her contributions as a pastor, author, and bishop have had a profound impact on the Episcopal Church and the broader community, inspiring many through her commitment to faith and service.