Thousands gathered on the National Mall for a prayer rally aimed at reaffirming the idea of the United States as “One Nation under God.” The event featured Christian worship music and imagery, including stained-glass depictions of the nation’s founders with a white cross, all set against the Washington Monument.
The rally emphasized Christianity’s role in American history, a point that critics have linked to Christian nationalism. President Donald Trump was featured in a video reading a Bible passage from 2 Chronicles, commonly used by those who view America as rooted in Christian beliefs.
Several prominent Republicans, such as Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and House Speaker Mike Johnson, participated. Many attendees were part of Trump’s evangelical supporter base, like Paula White-Cain of the White House Faith Office and evangelist Franklin Graham.
“We are deeply concerned that what is really being rededicated is a nation to a very narrow and ideological part of the Christian faith that betrays our nation’s fundamental commitment to religious freedom,” said the Rev. Adam Russell Taylor.
While some argue that the U.S. was founded as a Christian nation, many historians and religious leaders, like Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, highlight the country’s historical religious diversity. Pesner underlined America’s tradition of celebrating all faiths and those without faith.
Among the attendees, many wore Trump merchandise and expressed the significance of the event. Denny Smith from Rhode Island and Retha Bond from Illinois saw the rally as a crucial action to realign the nation with Christian values.
The late conservative activist Charlie Kirk was remembered during the event, which inspired young conservatives like Alessandra Seawright to share their faith more broadly. The gathering also incorporated memorials for Kirk, blending religious and political messages.
Pete Hegseth addressed those gathered, advocating for prayer centered on Jesus Christ, reflecting historical references to leaders like George Washington.
Rabbi Meir Soloveichik, the only non-Christian on the program, spoke against antisemitism, resonating with the crowd. The Trump administration’s Religious Liberty Commission, including figures like White-Cain and Graham, backed the event, organized by the Freedom 250 initiative. Meanwhile, congressional Democrats have raised concerns about the initiative’s links to Trump.
Progressive groups offered counter-narratives through protests, emphasizing church-state separation. Demonstrations included a large balloon depicting a Trump-like golden calf and projected slogans supporting democracy over theocracy.
Associated Press writer Peter Smith contributed from Pittsburgh. AP’s religion coverage is supported by its collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc.