Prayer Rally in Washington Unites Thousands

Thousands gathered on the National Mall on Sunday for a prayer rally aimed at dedicating the nation to its Christian roots. The event reflected the theme of ‘One Nation under God’ with worship music playing against the backdrop of the Washington Monument.

The stage featured arched stained-glass windows and grand columns, displaying images of the nation’s founders and a white cross. The rally highlighted Christianity’s historical impact in America, a view some critics argue supports Christian nationalism.

President Donald Trump appeared in a video, reading a Scripture passage used in a Bible-reading event last month. The verses from 2 Chronicles emphasized prayer and repentance as a path to healing the nation.

Several prominent Republicans, including Vice President JD Vance and others, participated in the rally, part of the celebrations marking 250 years of U.S. independence. Many attendees came from Trump’s evangelical support base.

Rev. Adam Russell Taylor of Sojourners expressed concerns about the event focusing solely on a narrow Christian ideology, overlooking America’s commitment to religious freedom. Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner highlighted the country’s historical religious diversity, including Jews, Muslims, and Indigenous people.

The event saw strong support from the crowd, many wearing Trump hats and patriotic colors. Denny Smith from Rhode Island and Retha Bond from Illinois attended, emphasizing the importance of dedicating the nation back to God.

The program included mentions of late conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Alessandra Seawright, a young attendee, appreciated the event for strengthening her conservative Christian beliefs.

Though mostly Christian, the event featured Rabbi Meir Soloveichik, who condemned antisemitism. The gathering, orchestrated by Freedom 250, faced scrutiny over its structure and finances by Congressional Democrats.

Progressive groups staged counterprotests. Displays near the mall included a large balloon depicting a Trump-like golden calf, symbolizing idolatry. The Interfaith Alliance projected slogans advocating for the separation of church and state onto the National Gallery of Art.

The Associated Press writer Peter Smith contributed to this report, with AP’s religion coverage supported by The Conversation US and Lilly Endowment Inc.