1. United States
2. Va.
3. Letter

I strongly oppose H.Res. 59 condemning the sermon given by Bishop Mariann Budde at the National Prayer Service. As a decorated and disabled combat veteran who served our nation honorably, I believe this resolution disrespects religious freedom and the right to voice dissent. Bishop Budde's sermon promoted biblical values like caring for the vulnerable and speaking truth to power. Disagreeing with political leaders is not "distorted" - it aligns with our nation's principles of free speech and separation of church and state. Faith leaders have a moral obligation to address social issues guided by their religious teachings. Silencing prophetic voices undermines democracy. I urge you to respect religious liberty by rejecting this misguided resolution attacking a faith leader's right to share her conscientious beliefs.