Several prominent MAGA-aligned voices are cheering President Donald Trump’s announcement that the U.S. will hold a nationwide prayer gathering on May 17, where he says Americans will “rededicate America as one nation under God.”
Trump revealed the plan during his remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., telling the audience that people from “all across the country” would come together to pray and “give thanks” on the date he highlighted.
“We’re going to rededicate America as one nation under God,” Trump said.
Supporters quickly celebrated the message online. Commentator Gunther Eagleman wrote to his 1.6 million followers on X that “God is Good,” while right-wing influencer Nick Sortor called it a reaffirmation that “America is a Christian nation.”
Why It Matters
Trump’s remarks are expected to reignite debate over religion’s role in public life, with the former president placing public prayer and religious expression at the center of a major, high-visibility event tied to the country’s 250th anniversary year.
What To Know
The May 17 gathering is being promoted under Trump’s Freedom 250 initiative, described as part of the National Park Foundation’s efforts to organize events connected to the 250th anniversary of American independence.
An advertisement for the event described a nationwide call to worship and reflection, saying:
“Join with neighbors and friends from every state in the Union in giving thanks and praise to God for 250 years of His Providence for the United States, in praying that God Bless and Protect America for the next 250 years, and in solemnly rededicating our country as One Nation under God.”
The text also framed the program as a sweeping historical tribute, adding:
“In speech, song, and storytelling, we will bear witness to the extraordinary story of how God has powerfully and wondrously shaped the United States of America—remembering the people, sacrifices, and defining moments in which God has powerfully manifested Himself in our history,” it continued. “This is more than an event—it is a once in a lifetime national moment.”
Trump did not explain why May 17 was selected. However, the date has historical precedent: before the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress proclaimed May 17, 1776, a day of fasting and prayer throughout the colonies, according to the Library of Congress.
What Happens Next
Planning for the May 17 National Mall event is expected to move forward through the Freedom 250 effort, which is separate from the congressional America250 programs.
Organizers are expected to release additional logistical details in the coming weeks. Attendees are being encouraged to RSVP for a day billed as prayer, praise, and thanksgiving as part of the broader 250th anniversary year programming.
