Pete Hegseth Faces Backlash for Offering Public Prayer to King Jesus at Pentagon Event

Criticism Surrounds Pentagon Prayer Led by Defense Secretary

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegses faced backlash from several critics who accused him of breaching the U.S. Constitution after he led a prayer at a voluntary event called “Jesus King” held at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, on Wednesday.

In his prayer, Hegses said, “King Jesus, we come humbly before you, seeking your face, seeking your grace, and humble obedience to your law and your words… We will seek your providence in our lives as sinners saved only by that grace.” He continued, asking for wisdom and courage in their daily actions, finishing with a declaration of faith that wrapped up with, “And all the people of God say Amen.”

The event, which lasted about 30 minutes, was described by Hegses as a potential monthly gathering aimed at Christian prayer and worship. However, he noted how some media were framing the event as being forced to showcase a public prayer to Jesus.

Referring to a coverage by the New York Times, Hegses remarked, “It will be forced to print the whole prayer…” indicating his awareness of the criticism surrounding it.

Meanwhile, the New York Times had previously pointed out Hegses’ notable “Deus Vult” tattoo, claiming he aimed to initiate a new kind of crusade. Senator Elizabeth Warren also weighed in, criticizing his tattoos and labeling him an “insider threat.”

Further criticism focused on the prayer itself, with some alleging it contravened the establishment clause of the First Amendment. Lt. Col. Rachel Van Randingham, a retired Air Force officer and law professor, described the service as “incredibly problematic,” emphasizing that the establishment clause exists to prevent state endorsement of any particular religion, even implicitly.

Van Randingham raised concerns about the implications of a high-ranking official endorsing such a religious event at the Pentagon, stating, “That’s wrong,” implying that it places undue weight of government authority behind a specific faith.

Mikey Weinstein, founder of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, criticized the prayer service, recalling his own family history with the Holocaust, which he believes underscores the importance of separating church and state. “That goes beyond explanation… it tears at our constitution,” he remarked.

On the other side, Erin Smith from the First Liberty Institute expressed support for Hegses, linking this situation to previous legal battles fought by military personnel regarding vaccine mandates tied to religious beliefs. She argued that Hegses’ display of faith is similarly protected, citing past instances where the religious rights of military members were challenged.

Evangelist Franklin Graham also voiced his support for Hegses, thanking him for his boldness in affirming his faith at the Pentagon. Hegses expressed gratitude for Graham’s support and extended an invitation for him to join the planned monthly prayer meetings.