An all-day prayer event on the National Mall on Sunday — backed by the White House through a mix of taxpayer funds and private donations — is the most recent flashpoint in the Trump administration blurring separation of church and state.
The event, dubbed “Rededicate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving,” is part of a series of celebrations commemorating America’s 250th birthday, and is expected to feature remarks from government officials including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and House Speaker Mike Johnson and video messages from President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The event will bring together faith leaders, public officials and musicians to reflect and worship ahead of the anniversary of the nation’s founding.
Sunday’s event is the latest in a series of faith initiatives and policy moves championed by the White House that have bolstered an emphasis on Christianity in the government’s operations, culture and policy.
Freedom 250, a nonprofit subsidiary of the National Park Foundation, which functions as the National Park Service’s fundraising arm, organized the event.
“Rededicate250 will be a powerful moment to reflect on where we have been, recommit ourselves to the ideals that define us, and look toward the future with renewed hope and purpose,” said Freedom 250 senior adviser Danielle Alvarez.
