Prayer Vigil Marks America’s 250th Anniversary

On Sunday, a significant number of Trump administration officials, Republican lawmakers, and prominent Christian figures convened on the National Mall for a large prayer vigil in anticipation of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

The event, titled “Reddedate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving,” attracted thousands who gathered to enjoy worship music, speeches, and prayers to reaffirm the idea of America as “one nation under God.”

Among those who spoke were President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, alongside various politicians and faith leaders.

In a recorded message, President Trump referred to 2 Chronicles 7, a well-known Bible passage urging people to “humble themselves” and seek God’s guidance.

“If my people, who are called by my name, humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sins and heal their land,” Trump recited.

Vance characterized the United States as a “nation of prayers” and emphasized that faith has been a cornerstone of the nation since its inception.

Rubio echoed this sentiment, linking American identity directly to Christianity. He stated, “From the beginning, we have believed that our country represents something new in the world. But the soul of our nation has always been rooted in our ancient faith.”

Gabbard called on Americans to humble themselves before God, reflecting on how the nation’s founders “knelt their knees” and sought divine mercy prior to declaring independence.

Johnson offered a “rededication” prayer, expressing gratitude for divine guidance throughout American history. “Thank you, Heavenly Father,” he said. “Thank you so much for this wonderful day you have given us here. And we remember that your mighty hand has been over our nation from the beginning.”

Mr. Hegseth mentioned George Washington’s faith, while Senator Tim Scott discussed Christianity’s crucial role in shaping the nation and noted that prayer was integral to the civil rights movement.

Alveda King, Martin Luther King Jr.’s niece, commended Trump for urging Americans to “rededicate America to God,” recalling that the country was founded on godly principles.

Jonathan Roomy, known for his role as Jesus in “The Chosen,” also spoke, motivating attendees to recommit to faith and prayer.

To commemorate its 250th anniversary, nearly 500 individuals from various fields will read the Bible from cover to cover.

Participants at the event included Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Bishop Robert Barron, Rabbi Meir Soloveitchik, and evangelist Franklin Graham, along with performances by Grammy Award-winning Christian artist Chris Tomlin. Many attendees were seen dressed in patriotic colors.

The event was organized by Freedom 250, a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating America’s upcoming anniversary on July 4, 2026.