Prominent Catholic figures will join Donald Trump as he rededicates the United States to “one nation, under God”.
The event, scheduled to take place on May 17, will be held at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., a national park nicknamed “America’s front yard”. Called “Rededicate 250”, it is part of wider celebrations across the United States marking the country’s 250th anniversary.
The event’s homepage explains that attendees will “join with neighbours and friends from every state in the Union in giving thanks and praise to God for 250 years of His Providence for the United States, in praying that God bless and protect America for the next 250 years, and in solemnly rededicating our country as one nation under God”.
Justin Caporale, executive producer for major events and public appearances for the White House, further explained: “Our mission is to gather the nation in prayer and worship, to have a moment reflecting on God’s providence in the birth and preservation of the United States, and this is really our opportunity to unite the country and rededicate our nation to God.”
The event will include high profile Catholic speakers including Bishop Robert Barron, Bishop of the Diocese of Winona–Rochester and founder of Word on Fire Ministries; Father Mike Schmitz of the Bible in a Year podcast; and actor Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus in The Chosen. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, will appear via video call.
Notable Protestant speakers will also feature, including film producer Samuel Rodriguez, Pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano Jack Graham, and author Eric Metaxas. Billy Graham’s son, Franklin Graham, is also expected to give an address via video.
Worship music will be led by Chris Tomlin, author of “How Great Is Our God”.
There will also be musical performances by Chris Tomlin and Blessing Offor, a Nigerian born American gospel singer.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has also launched its own set of events to honour the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The USCCB has asked parishes to contribute to 250 collective hours spent in adoration and 250 collective hours of works of mercy before the Fourth of July.
Alongside this, on July 12 the bishops will also consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus during Holy Mass at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
