Thousands Gather for Prayer Rally on National Mall

Thousands gathered at the National Mall on Sunday for a prayer rally aimed at “rededicating our country as One Nation under God.” This daylong event featured a prominent Christian theme, highlighted by worship music and symbolic imagery of the nation’s founders with a white cross.

Among those speaking at the rally was President Donald Trump. He read a passage from 2 Chronicles in a video message recorded in the Oval Office, previously used during a Bible-reading event. The passage is often associated with the belief that America was established as a Christian nation.

The event, called Rededicate 250: National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving, commemorated 250 years of U.S. independence. Attendees included key Republicans like Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Most speakers were evangelical supporters of Trump, with only one non-Christian, Rabbi Meir Soloveichik, featured on the schedule.

Christian Nationalism and Religious Freedom Concerns

Critics expressed concern over the blending of Christianity with American history, which some view as a nod to Christian nationalism. Rev. Adam Russell Taylor of Sojourners highlighted worries about rededicating the nation to a narrow Christian ideology, potentially undermining religious freedom.

Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner spoke on America’s religious diversity, emphasizing the nation’s history of welcoming people of all faiths and non-faiths. He urged attendees to celebrate this diversity.

Public Reactions and Support

The crowd, many wearing Trump hats and patriotic colors, included people like Denny Smith from Rhode Island and Retha Bond from southern Illinois. They expressed the importance of rededicating the nation to Christian values. Bond, a longtime Trump supporter, emphasized the event’s significance.

Events like these resonate with attendees like Alessandra Seawright, who regards them as opportunities to promote Christian beliefs. She and her mother attended in memory of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Protests and Counterprogramming

While Orthodox Jewish Rabbi Meir Soloveichik received applause for condemning antisemitism, mentioning divisions within the right, counterprotests occurred. Progressive groups staged activities, including a large balloon of a Trump-like golden calf, challenging the event’s focus.

The gathering was organized by Freedom 250, tied to the White House. Congressional Democrats raised concerns about the nonprofit’s structure and financial transparency.

Overall, the event highlighted ongoing debates around religious freedom, nationalism, and the separation of church and state.

Associated Press writer Peter Smith contributed to this report.