Senior officials in the administration of Donald Trump are set to participate in a large-scale prayer gathering in Washington on Sunday, an event organisers say is aimed at reaffirming America’s religious foundations.
The event, taking place on the National Mall as part of activities marking the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations, will feature top government officials including Pete Hegseth, Marco Rubio, and Mike Johnson.
Trump is also expected to address attendees through a video message.
Organisers described the gathering as an opportunity to “rededicate” the United States to “God and country,” with Hegseth encouraging Americans to reclaim what he called the nation’s Christian roots.
The event has drawn national attention amid growing discussions around the influence of Christian nationalism in American politics during Trump’s second term in office.
Critics argue that the gathering resembles a government-backed rally promoting a specific religious and political ideology, despite constitutional provisions separating church and state.
Although faith-based events involving presidents and political leaders have long been part of American public life, analysts say the scale of Sunday’s programme and the involvement of high-ranking cabinet officials make it unusual.
The list of invited religious leaders has also generated debate, with most speakers identified as evangelical Protestant ministers.
Religious studies scholar Sam Perry of Baylor University said the blending of conservative Christianity and nationalism is not entirely new in the United States, but noted that the direct involvement of the White House on such a scale marks a significant shift.
Another academic, Julie Ingersoll of the University of North Florida, argued that the composition of speakers reflects a narrow view of American identity centred around Christianity and conservative cultural values.
The National Mall, where the event is being held, has historically hosted major national demonstrations and historic gatherings, including the 1963 March on Washington led by Martin Luther King Jr..
Sunday’s programme is expected to last approximately nine hours.
Paula White, head of the White House Faith Office and a longtime spiritual adviser to Trump, described the gathering as a moment to reaffirm the nation’s religious heritage.
“This is really truly rededicating the country to God,” she said ahead of the event.
