Thousands Expected on National Mall for Prayer Gathering Ahead of America's 250th Anniversary
Organizers say thousands of Christians plan to gather on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., for a day of prayer and worship ahead of the United States' 250th anniversary. The event, called Rededicate 250, is being described as potentially the largest religious gathering in the country in more than 50 years. A nationwide Bible reading initiative is also underway to mark the occasion.
Organizers expect thousands of Christians to gather on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., for a day of prayer and worship tied to the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations.
The event, called Rededicate 250, is scheduled for June 2026. Organizers say it could be the largest religious gathering in the country in more than 50 years.
A separate nationwide Bible reading initiative is also underway, marking 250 years of scripture in America. Participants across the country are reading through the Bible in coordinated sessions leading up to the anniversary.
The gatherings come as church attendance data shows signs of recovery after years of decline. A new report from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research found that attendance has risen for the first time in roughly two decades.
Megachurch pastor Adam Hamilton, who recently announced he will run for the U.S. Senate in Kansas as a Democrat, is among the prominent Christian voices drawing attention to the anniversary year. Hamilton leads the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, one of the largest Methodist congregations in the country.
King Charles III addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress in late April, describing Christianity as a "firm anchor and daily inspiration" in his life. His remarks drew applause from members of both parties.
The Rededicate 250 event is being organized by a coalition of evangelical and mainline Protestant groups. Organizers say they expect participants from all 50 states.
"This is about calling the country back to its founding values," said one organizer. "It's not partisan. It's about prayer."
Security planning for the event is underway with the National Park Service.
