As the United States nears its 250th anniversary, President Donald Trump has chosen a symbolic date for a major spiritual gathering: a national rededication to God.
The event, scheduled for Sunday, May 17, in Washington, D.C., is envisioned as a full day of prayer and worship on the National Mall.
During his announcement at the National Prayer Breakfast in February, Trump invited citizens from every corner of the country to join the assembly.
“We’re going to rededicate America as ‘one nation under God,’” he declared, a statement that drew a standing ovation and enthusiastic applause from the crowd.
BREAKING 🚨 President Trump stuns America by announcing America will re-dedicate itself to God on May 17th 2026
“We’re going to rededicate America as one nation under God”
CHRIST IS KING 🙏 pic.twitter.com/3YlkkTtbhq
— MAGA Voice (@MAGAVoice) February 5, 2026
The Spiritual Heritage of May 17
President Trump recently emphasized the essential role of faith in national success, arguing that a great country requires a foundation of religious belief. This perspective mirrors a historical precedent set exactly 250 years ago.
According to the official history of the U.S. House of Representatives, Delegate William Livingston submitted a resolution in March 1776—months before the Declaration of Independence—calling for a national day of fasting and prayer. Lawmakers designated May 17, 1776, as a day for the colonies to acknowledge “overruling providence” and seek divine protection against British aggression.
Seeking Divine Intervention
While the Continental Army was already active under George Washington, the colonies still held out hope for peace. Livingston’s resolution sought God’s help to:
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Grant victory to American arms by land and sea if conflict continued.
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Inspire civil leaders with wisdom, stability, and a “disinterested love of their country.”
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Strengthen the union and establish American rights on a permanent basis.
This tradition continued throughout the Revolution, with Congress issuing proclamations of thanks after pivotal victories at Saratoga (1777) and Yorktown (1781). Following his 1789 inauguration, George Washington reinforced this sentiment, stating that the “Invisible Hand” of Providence was visible in every step of America’s journey toward independence.
Rededicate 250: The 2026 Event
In his January proclamation, “A Year of Celebration and Rededication, 2026,” President Trump called on modern Americans to follow the Founders’ example, praying that the “fire of freedom” continues to be guided by grace and providence.
Event Details:
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Time: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
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Notable Speakers: House Speaker Mike Johnson, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Franklin Graham, Bishop Robert Barron, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, and Rabbi Meir Soloveichik.
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Performers: Choirs from Liberty University, Grand Canyon University, and Hillsdale College.
On May 17 of this year, participants will gather on the National Mall to mirror the exact act of devotion performed by the American colonists two and a half centuries ago.
