National Jubilee on the Mall Draws Crowds and Criticism Over Christian Focus
A daylong jubilee called 'Rededicate 250' is set for May 17 at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The event, organized by Freedom 250, features 14 Christian speakers out of 15 faith leaders. Critics say the program sidelines non-Christian Americans.
A daylong jubilee called "Rededicate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise and Thanksgiving" is scheduled for May 17 at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The event is part of the America250 celebration marking the nation's 250th birthday.
Freedom 250 organized the program. Of the 15 faith leaders on the roster, 14 are Christian, including seven evangelical leaders and two Catholics. Orthodox Jewish rabbi Meir Soloveichik is the only non-Christian participant.
The jubilee is open to the public regardless of religious background. Organizers structured it around three themes: divine providence in American history, personal testimonies of healing, and a collective rededication for the next 250 years.
Not everyone is welcoming the event. Rev. Paul Raushenbush, CEO of the Interfaith Alliance, called it "intentionally exclusive" and said it attempts to "rewrite American history." Annie Laurie Gaylor of the Freedom From Religion Foundation accused organizers of promoting a Christian nationalist agenda through a government-backed platform.
Supporters say the event reflects the faith traditions of many Americans and offers a moment of national reflection. Critics argue that a government-affiliated celebration should represent the full range of American religious life, not just one tradition.
The event comes as church attendance among younger Americans has shown a modest uptick, according to a 2025 Barna Group survey. Whether the jubilee will draw broad participation or deepen divisions over religion in public life remains to be seen.
