As Holy Week commenced with Palm Sunday, President Donald Trump reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding religious freedom across various aspects of American life. In a message released by the White House, he pledged his administration’s dedication “to defend the Christian faith in our schools, military, workplaces, hospitals, and halls of government.”
“We will never waver in safeguarding the right to religious liberty, upholding the dignity of life, and protecting God in our public square,” Trump stated.
Reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice, Trump emphasized the importance of faith during challenging times. “As we focus on Christ’s redeeming sacrifice, we look to His love, humility, and obedience—even in life’s most difficult and uncertain moments.” He expressed a desire for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the nation and prayed that America would continue to serve as “a beacon of faith, hope, and freedom for the entire world,” striving towards a future reflecting Christ’s eternal kingdom.
The White House is planning extensive celebrations throughout Holy Week, aiming to honor Easter with “the observance it deserves.” Trump, alongside First Lady Melania Trump, conveyed prayers for Christians commemorating Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection—a pivotal moment signifying the Son of God conquering death, liberating humanity from sin, and opening the gates of Heaven.
The message highlighted the significance of Holy Week, beginning with Christ’s triumphant entrance into Jerusalem and culminating in the Paschal Triduum:
- Holy Thursday’s Mass of the Lord’s Supper
- Good Friday
- The Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night.
Trump underscored that Easter Sunday, symbolizing light overcoming darkness and offering hope for eternal life, is preceded by Jesus Christ’s sacrifice.
“During this sacred week, we acknowledge that the glory of Easter Sunday cannot come without the sacrifice Jesus Christ made on the cross,” he said. “In His final hours on Earth, Christ willingly endured excruciating pain, torture, and execution on the cross out of a deep and abiding love for all His creation. Through His suffering, we have redemption. Through His death, we are forgiven of our sins. Through His Resurrection, we have hope of eternal life.”
Following an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania during a rally in July 2024, Trump has frequently spoken about his faith and believes he was “saved by God to Make America Great Again.” A portrait depicting that event now hangs at the White House, replacing one of former President Barack Obama.
The Holy Week proclamation marks the beginning of a series of events orchestrated by the newly established White House Faith Office. According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, this office fulfills Trump’s promise to millions of Christians and stands in contrast to actions taken by the previous administration regarding Easter celebrations.
Jennifer Korn, faith director for the White House Faith Office, described the upcoming celebrations as “extraordinary.”
Planned events include:
- A Holy Week video release on Monday.
- An Easter dinner hosted on Wednesday evening.
- On Holy Thursday, a staff worship service at the White House featuring Pastor Paula White, Reverend Franklin Graham, Pastor Greg Laurie and Pastor Jentezen Franklin participating in prayer, scripture reading, fellowship and communion.
Trump concluded his message with a blessing: “May God bless you and your family during this special time of year and may He continue to bless the United States of America.”
