BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
From the very inception of our Nation, America has been illuminated by the grace of the Almighty. Since that first prayer at the First Continental Congress in 1774, our faith has served as the apex of our strength, the bedrock of our unity, and the wellspring of our greatness. On this National Day of Prayer, we express our gratitude for God’s boundless blessings and beseech Him for resilience, wisdom, and a renewed commitment to justice as we undertake the crucial work of safeguarding our country and revitalizing our national promise.
Throughout every chapter of our illustrious American narrative—from General George Washington’s earnest supplication at Valley Forge to Reverend Billy Graham’s iconic gatherings in Manhattan, and the solemn National Prayer Service following the September 11 attacks—our prominent leaders have consistently acknowledged the vital role of faith, prayer, and devotion to God. As President Washington wisely noted in his Farewell Address, “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.”
For these compelling reasons, my Administration is dedicated to upholding America’s cherished legacy of prayer, faith, and trust in God. I have initiated Task Forces aimed at eradicating religious bias, specifically targeting anti-Semitic, anti-Christian, and other forms of religious discrimination. Their mission is to identify and dismantle all anti-religious policies, practices, and behaviors within executive departments and agencies. Additionally, I have established the White House Faith Office to bolster our families and safeguard our religious freedoms. I remain steadfast in my commitment to protect the right to religious liberty and uphold the presence of God in our public life.
Nine months ago, on July 13, 2024, my faith was profoundly tested. An assassin’s bullet narrowly missed my life. In that moment, as the Secret Service shielded me, I sensed what can only be described as the supernatural hand of God. I firmly believe that my life was spared for a purpose—to lead our country toward greatness once again. This experience serves as a sacred reminder of our Creator’s unending goodness, guidance, and grace.
Through America’s victories and defeats, triumphs and trials, and eras of peace and conflict, the divine power of prayer has consistently sustained our people, our culture, and our cherished Nation. It was faith that steered our ancestors across treacherous waters to Plymouth Rock. It was faith that empowered our Founding Fathers to declare those immortal words, “All men are created equal.” It is faith that liberated our Nation from tyranny nearly 250 years ago and continues to rescue our freedom from the forces of malevolence.
This National Day of Prayer, we honor the truth that the true essence of the American spirit resides in our churches, chapels, pews, parishes, and synagogues, as well as in the hearts and souls of our faithful citizens. Today, and every day, we bow our heads in gratitude to God for His countless blessings and seek His divine protection. Above all, we recognize that prayer forms the foundation of our past, guides our present, and illuminates our future.
In 1988, Congress, through Public Law 100-307, called upon the President to annually proclaim the first Thursday of May as a National Day of Prayer, “on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.”
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2025, as a National Day of Prayer. I encourage all Americans to observe this day by reflecting on the blessings our Nation has received and the significance of prayer through suitable programs, ceremonies, and activities in their houses of worship, communities, workplaces, schools, and homes.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
