On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth led an event that was unlike anything the previous administration had set out to do. It was a Christian prayer service in the Pentagon’s auditorium. The event, advertised as the “Secretary of Defense Christian Prayer & Worship Service,” was standing room only. In the prayer, Hesgeth asked God for wisdom and protection.
Timing
It ran for about 30 minutes. Mr. Hegseth stated that he intended for the prayer service to become a monthly event. Additionally, the defense secretary said that attendance at the prayer service was voluntary.
Antagonists
Some complained that this meeting violated our First Amendment rights. Nonetheless, this prayer service was not compulsory. The Freedom From Religion Foundation believes that he is pushing his religion on others. Since this was a voluntary service, that view is incorrect.
Prayer
Here is his prayer.
King Jesus, we come humbly before you, seeking your face, seeking your grace, in humble obedience to your law and to your word,” Mr. Hegseth prayed after asking attendees to bow their heads. “We come as sinners saved only by that grace, seeking your providence in our lives and in our nation. Lord God, we ask for the wisdom to see what is right and in each and every day, in each and every circumstance, the courage to do what is right in obedience to your will. It is in the name of our lord and savior, Jesus Christ, that we pray. And all God’s people say amen.
With that, many of the attendees replied, Amen.
