This is a conversation between Fr Laurence Freeman and Bishop Mariann Budde, the spiritual leader of the Episcopal congregations and schools in the District of Columbia and four Maryland counties. Along with Ray Dalio, they will join Tim Shriver, the keynote speaker, at the John Main Seminar 2026, taking place in Washington, DC, from 17–20 September, to reflect on the theme Healing the Breach: Finding Faith, Meaning and Dignity in a Season of Contempt.
Why do you feel the theme of this Seminar is so urgent? “Finding Faith, Meaning and Dignity in a Season of Contempt”
We live in a culture awash in contempt, in which we are continually exposed to
contemptuous speech and are encouraged to use it ourselves, particularly when speaking to or about those with whom we disagree.
Faith, meaning and honoring the dignity of every human being are the antidotes to contempt, and the means for us to remain grounded in the love and mercy of Jesus.
Do you see this both as an American and as a Global crisis?
Contempt knows no borders. My family in Sweden and my counterparts in other countries speak of similar expressions of contempt and fear. We see it on the global stage.
What most inspires you about Tim Shriver's life, work and vision?
I came across Tim Shriver’s Dignity Index work during the intensely polarized political campaign season resulting in President Trump’s re-election. It felt like answered prayer. Here was a tool that not only helped me speak more persuasively and practically about how we honor the dignity of every human being (a core promise of our baptism) and also held me
accountable for my own inclinations to speak with contempt about others. I have since come to know Tim and work alongside him and his colleagues on occasion. He is a man of deep faith and Christian practice, whose life work in education, the Special Olympics, and now as an advocate for human dignity, is an inspiration.
Can you say something about prayer as metanoia, the transformation of consciousness?
I approach prayer with humility and a beginner’s mind, always starting again in the contemplative practices that create time and space for the Spirit to work within me. It is the greatest of mysteries and I never feel adequate on my side of the relationship. Yet God is patient and gracious in leading me to moments of metanoia, often in response to something I am struggling with. Sometimes actions precede the transformation of consciousness–living as if I felt the transformation I seek or need. Sometimes I feel the change like an inner release—sheer gift. Most of the time I wait and trust.
Bishop Mariann Budde, the spiritual leader of the Episcopal congregations and schools across the District of Columbia and four Maryland counties, will be one of the speakers at the John Main Seminar 2026 in Washington, DC, joining keynote speaker Tim Shriver in conversation.
