Thousands gather on National Mall for daylong prayer rally
Thousands gathered on the National Mall for a prayer rally aimed at rededicating the nation as 'One Nation Under God.' The event, backed by the White House, featured predominantly Christian speakers and drew criticism for its perceived blending of church and state. Prominent Republican officials participated, raising concerns about the implications for religious freedom in a diverse society.
- ▪The rally was attended by thousands and featured worship music and Christian themes.
- ▪Critics argue the event blurs the lines between church and state, with mostly evangelical speakers.
- ▪Only one non-Christian speaker was included in the program, raising concerns about inclusivity.
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Rededicate 250 Religious Freedom Event On National Mall, Washington, Dc, on Sunday. Photograph: Andrew Leyden/ZUMA Press Wire/ShutterstockView image in fullscreenRededicate 250 Religious Freedom Event On National Mall, Washington, Dc, on Sunday. Photograph: Andrew Leyden/ZUMA Press Wire/ShutterstockUS newsThousands gather on National Mall for daylong prayer rallyWhite House-backed event billed as ‘One Nation Under God’ criticized for blurring lines between church and stateRoque PlanasSun 17 May 2026 15.47 EDTLast modified on Sun 17 May 2026 15.48 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThousands of people streamed onto the National Mall for a daylong prayer rally on Sunday billed as a “rededication of our country as One Nation Under God”.Against the backdrop of the Washington Monument,…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — US.