Savannah Guthrie's Faith Provides Comfort Amid Difficult Time

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde discusses how Guthrie's religious beliefs may help her cope with the disappearance of her sister Nancy.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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In the wake of the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's sister Nancy, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington joined CNN's The Lead to discuss how Guthrie's faith may provide her with comfort and strength during this difficult time. Guthrie, the co-anchor of NBC's Today show, is reportedly devastated by the ongoing FBI investigation into her sister's kidnapping in Kansas.

Why it matters

Guthrie's personal tragedy has drawn national attention, and many are looking to her public persona and known religious beliefs as a way to understand how she may be coping. Guthrie's faith has long been an important part of her life, and examining how it may be guiding her through this crisis provides insight into the role of religion during times of extreme duress.

The details

Bishop Budde, who has known Guthrie for years, spoke about the anchor's deep Episcopal faith and how it has sustained her through other challenges. Guthrie is known to regularly attend services at the Washington National Cathedral and has spoken openly about the importance of her beliefs.

  • Savannah Guthrie's sister Nancy went missing in Kansas on February 5, 2026.

The players

Savannah Guthrie

The co-anchor of NBC's Today show, whose sister Nancy recently went missing in Kansas.

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde

The Episcopal Bishop of Washington, D.C., who has known Savannah Guthrie for years and discussed how her faith may be helping her cope with her sister's disappearance.

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What they’re saying

“Savannah's faith has always been an important part of her life, and I know it will be a great source of comfort and strength for her during this incredibly difficult time.”

— Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, Episcopal Bishop of Washington, D.C. (CNN)

What’s next

The FBI investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance is ongoing, and authorities have not yet provided any updates on the case or a timeline for when more information may be released to the public.

The takeaway

Savannah Guthrie's deep religious faith is likely playing a crucial role in helping her cope with the anguish of her sister's mysterious disappearance. As the public continues to follow this high-profile case, Guthrie's ability to draw strength from her beliefs may serve as an inspiration to others facing similar tragedies.