In a Good Friday address, President Trump emphasized the resurgence of religion in America, framing faith as essential to national strength and celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
In a Good Friday message delivered from the Resolute Desk, President Donald Trump proclaimed that religion is experiencing a “resurgence” in the United States for the first time in decades, coinciding with the celebrations of Holy Week and Easter.
Trump’s remarks highlighted faith as a cornerstone of American strength. He stated, “As I have often said, to be a great nation, you must have religion, and you must have God.” The president’s video address, shared on Truth Social, honored the Christian faith and underscored what he perceives as a cultural shift toward greater religious engagement in the country.
Reflecting on his own background, Trump often recalls his Presbyterian upbringing and the influence of his devout Scottish mother and “very strong” father. During the 2024 National Faith Summit, he remarked on the increasing attendance in churches, saying, “In churches across the nation on Sunday, the pews will be fuller, younger, and more faithful than they have at any time in many, many years.” He added, “Religion is growing again in our country for the first time in decades.”
In his efforts to reintegrate prayer and faith into public life, Trump has initiated the America 250 prayer initiative and established the White House Faith Office early in his second term. He expressed pride in joining Christians during Holy Week, stating, “This Holy Week, I’m proud to join with Christians across the country and around the world to celebrate the most glorious miracle in all of time — the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.” He emphasized the humility and love exemplified by Christ in both His life and death.
Trump also quoted scripture during his address, referencing John 3:16: “As it says in the Gospel of John, for God so loved the world that He gave His only son, for whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”
The president’s open and fervent approach to the Christian holiday stands in contrast to that of his predecessor, former President Joe Biden, who offered a more subdued three-paragraph statement during his tenure to mark the season in 2024.
Since surviving an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, in July 2024, Trump has become increasingly vocal about his faith. He stated during a joint session of Congress in 2025, “I believe that my life was saved that day in Butler for a very good reason. I was saved by God to make America great again. I believe that.”
Concluding his remarks, Trump extended warm wishes for the holiday, saying, “Happy Easter to all. May God bless you. May God bless the United States of America.”
The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the address.
According to Fox News, Trump’s message reflects his ongoing commitment to promoting religious values in American life.