AUSTIN (RNS) — Retired Episcopal Presiding Bishop Michael Curry prays for President Donald Trump even when it’s hard to take that step, he said at a Texas Tribune Festival session on Thursday (Nov. 13), in conversation with New York Times national reporter Ruth Graham.
Curry was the first African American elected to lead the predominantly white denomination and completed his nine-year term as presiding bishop on Oct. 31, 2024. He said he is guided by the prayer book of the Episcopal Church when he takes on the task of praying for the president.
“Whatever Michael’s opinions are — right, wrong or different — the language of prayers that have been thought and prayed over has a way of calling me to my higher self,” he said. “Even on days when I say, doggone it, get on your knees and pray for him, for his family, for all those who are in leadership and authority, that they may do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God.”
In the hourlong discussion, Curry, 72, also spoke about the challenges he faced as presiding bishop, his family’s faith history and how he still hasn’t quite figured out how he’ll spend his retirement years.
He recalled being completely surprised at the invitation to give an “a …