A crowd gathered at the National Mall for a prayer rally emphasizing America as ‘One Nation under God.’ Worship music played, with the Washington Monument serving as the backdrop. Stained-glass windows and columns illustrated the country’s founders alongside a white cross, solidifying the event’s Christian focus.

President Donald Trump appeared in a video, reading scripture from the Oval Office. He quoted 2 Chronicles, a passage often referenced by those who argue for America’s Christian roots. Trump’s support was echoed by other Republicans present, such as Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The Rededicate 250 event marked 250 years of U.S. independence and featured mainly Christian speakers. Critics, including Rev. Adam Russell Taylor, expressed concerns over the event promoting a narrow Christian ideology. Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner reminded attendees of America’s diverse religious history, which includes Jews, Muslims, and Indigenous beliefs.

Many participants wore Trump-themed apparel, expressing strong support. Denny Smith from Rhode Island and Retha Bond from Illinois highlighted their belief in the importance of the event. Orthodox Jewish Rabbi Meir Soloveichik, the only non-Christian speaker, addressed antisemitism and joined other religious leaders on the program advocating for religious liberty.

Protests accompanied the rally. Groups like the Freedom From Religion Foundation and Faithful America criticized the intertwining of religion and state. The Interfaith Alliance projected slogans onto the National Gallery of Art, promoting the separation of church and state. The rally’s organization by Freedom 250, a partnership backed by the White House, also raised questions about its governance.