Let’s name the truth: Bishop Budde’s call for mercy was not an attack. It was a reminder. A reminder that leadership without mercy is tyranny. A reminder that the church’s foundation lies in caring for the “least of these.” A reminder that our faith demands responsibility for the vulnerable.

Budde was raised in Morris County by a single mom and a congregation that valued hard work. "I didn't see myself as minister material," she said.

A scholar of medieval Christianity explores the history of Christians who spoke out, unafraid to risk official censure or even death.