Thousands Gather on National Mall for Rededicate 250 Prayer Rally
Thousands of Christians gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on May 17, 2026, for the Rededicate 250 prayer rally. The event marked 250 years since the Second Continental Congress called for a national day of repentance. Top White House officials, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, addressed the crowd.
Thousands of Christians gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on May 17, 2026, for the Rededicate 250 prayer rally. The event marked 250 years since the Second Continental Congress called for a national day of repentance.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth headlined the event, which was organized by a private foundation in partnership with the White House. CBN's Gordon and Abigail Robertson also spoke at the rally. President Trump called on Americans to rededicate the country to God as part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations.
The rally drew criticism from some religious scholars and interfaith advocates, who noted the speaker lineup lacked representation from Muslim communities, historically Black churches, Indigenous faith leaders, and mainline Protestant denominations. Speakers included televangelist Jentezen Franklin and author Eric Metaxas.
Pastor Jentezen Franklin delivered a message on the power of prayer during a time of global uncertainty. The event featured worship music and prayer segments throughout the day.
Organizers said the rally was intended as a spiritual complement to the broader America 250 anniversary celebrations. Satellite events were held in cities across the country for those unable to attend in person.
The National Mall event drew an estimated crowd in the thousands, with live streams reaching viewers nationwide. CBN News broadcast the event live, calling it a historic moment for American Christianity.
