President Donald Trump is set to participate in a public Bible reading this week, marking the latest step in an administration effort to integrate Christianity into official government business.
Oval Office Scripture Reading
On April 21, the president is scheduled to read Scripture via a video message from the Oval Office during the 6 p.m. EST hour. The event is part of a weeklong initiative titled “America Reads The Bible.”
According to organizers, Trump will read 2 Chronicles 7:11-22. This passage includes verse 14, which calls for people to humble themselves and pray so that God may heal their land.
The president will be joined by several high-ranking officials, including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Recent Religious Controversies
The scheduled reading comes amid a period of religious tension. Trump recently engaged in a feud with Pope Leo over the conflict in Iran, stating, “I’m not a fan of Pope Leo,” and criticizing the pope’s stance on nuclear weapons.
In response, Pope Leo stated that he has “no fear of the Trump administration.”
the president recently faced backlash for posting an AI-generated image of himself as Jesus. Trump defended the post, claiming he believed the image depicted him as a doctor with the Red Cross.
Integration of Faith and State
Since returning to office last year, the administration has taken several steps to reduce the separation between church and state. The White House has asked Americans to pray for one hour per week.
Official government social media accounts have featured Christian imagery and Bible verses, while various federal agencies have hosted prayer services.
At the Pentagon, Secretary Pete Hegseth has actively infused religion into official business. Hegseth previously invited Pastor Douglas Wilson—who supports Christian theocracy and the repeal of women’s right to vote—to lead a prayer service.
During a recent briefing on the Iran war, Hegseth compared members of the press to Pharisees, describing them as “self-appointed elites” who doubted the goodness of Jesus.
Looking Forward
The administration may continue to expand the presence of religious mandates within federal agencies. This could lead to further friction with international religious leaders or continued debate over the role of faith in public policy.
Depending on the reception of the “America Reads The Bible” event, the White House may introduce more coordinated religious initiatives involving cabinet-level officials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “America Reads The Bible” event?
It is a weeklong public Bible reading event. President Trump will participate by reading Scripture via a video message from the Oval Office on April 21 at 6 p.m. EST.
Which specific Bible passage will President Trump read?
He is scheduled to read 2 Chronicles 7:11-22, which includes verse 14 regarding humbling oneself and praying for the healing of the land.
How has the Pentagon integrated religion under Secretary Pete Hegseth?
Secretary Hegseth has evoked scripture in official business, compared reporters to Pharisees during a briefing, and invited Pastor Douglas Wilson to lead a prayer service at the Pentagon.
Do you believe the integration of religious readings into official government events changes the nature of the presidency?
