#USA #DC – Thousands of Americans converged on the National Mall on Sunday, May 17, 2026, for “Rededicate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving,” a daylong religious gathering organized by Freedom 250 to mark the lead-up to the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The event, which ran from approximately 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., featured worship music, Scripture readings, personal testimonies, prayers, and speeches from prominent faith leaders and Trump administration officials. Attendees waved American flags and banners, including signs reading “Jesus Make America Godly Again,” as they participated in what organizers described as a re-dedication of the country as “One Nation Under God.”
President Donald Trump had previously declared May 17 a national day of prayer and promoted the gathering, tying it to broader “America 250” commemorations of the 1776 Declaration of Independence. In remarks earlier in the year, Trump invited Americans “to come together on our National Mall to pray, to give thanks, and to rededicate America as one nation under God.”
Speakers included Trump administration allies and supporters, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, evangelist Franklin Graham, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, actor Jonathan Roumie, Bishop Robert Barron, Sadie Robertson Huff, Pastor Jonathan Falwell, Eric Metaxas, and others. The program was overwhelmingly Christian in focus, with nearly all faith leaders representing Christian denominations, though organizers said the event welcomed Americans of every background.
Freedom 250, a White House-backed public-private initiative, described the gathering as a “once in a lifetime national moment” for reflection on the faith of America’s founders and a call for divine guidance ahead of the semiquincentennial. Sunrise worship took place near the U.S. Capitol, followed by a full program on the main stage at 12th Street.
Supporters praised the event as a powerful expression of patriotism and faith rooted in the nation’s heritage. Many participants viewed it as an opportunity for national repentance, revival, and thanksgiving.
Critics, including groups like the Freedom From Religion Foundation, raised concerns about the mixing of church and state, arguing the heavily Christian lineup and government involvement promoted Christian nationalism and pseudohistory. Some observers noted that while open to all, the programming did not fully reflect America’s religious diversity.
The rally remained peaceful throughout the day, with reports of a festive, worshipful atmosphere against the backdrop of iconic monuments. Livestreams and partner organizations allowed wider participation beyond those who traveled to Washington.
As the United States prepares for its 250th birthday in 2026, the Rededicate 250 event underscored ongoing debates about the role of faith in public life and the country’s foundational principles. Organizers and attendees expressed hope that the day would contribute to national healing and a renewed sense of purpose.
Image: Americans seen celebrating during the national prayer event on National Mall in Washington D.C. on May 17th, 2026.
