Trump Attends National Unity Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance attended an interfaith prayer service at the Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, marking a tradition of unity and reflection during Inauguration Day events. The service, titled “Interfaith Service of Prayer for the Nation,” focused on national unity rather than the new administration, a theme planned before the 2024 election.

“We are in a unique moment in our country’s history, and it is time to approach this differently,” said the Very Rev. Randy Hollerith, dean of the Episcopal cathedral, in an October statement. “This will be a service for all Americans, for the well-being of our nation, for our democracy.”

The event came just 12 days after the cathedral hosted the funeral for former President Jimmy Carter on Jan. 9, 2025. Kevin Eckstrom, a cathedral spokesman, noted the quick turnaround, stating, “This is the second leg of the marathon. But actually having just done the funeral has positioned us to do another event with thousands of people, again, fairly easily.”

The service, which began at 11 a.m. ET, was not open to the public due to security concerns and the presence of numerous dignitaries. It was livestreamed for public viewing. Leaders from Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, LDS, Sikh, and other Christian groups participated, reflecting the cathedral’s commitment to inclusivity.

The Washington National Cathedral has hosted 10 official inaugural prayer services for presidents of both parties since 1933. The tradition was revived in 1985 during Ronald Reagan‘s second term and has since become a staple of Inauguration Day events. The most recent service before Trump’s second presidency was held virtually in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier in the week, Trump attended a private prayer service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, known as the “Church of the Presidents.” Every president since James Madison has attended at least one service there, making it a symbolic stop for incoming presidents.

During Monday’s inauguration ceremony, Trump opted not to place his hand on the Bible while taking the oath of office, a departure from his first inauguration. Article 6 of the U.S. Constitution states that no religious test is required for public office, leaving the decision to the president’s discretion.