Defense Secretary Hegseth Launches Monthly Christian Prayer Service at Pentagon. Source: U.S. Secretary of Defense, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Thursday, May 22, 2025 3:25 AM UTC
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth led a Christian prayer and worship service at the Pentagon on Wednesday, marking what appears to be the first event of its kind hosted by a sitting defense chief. Hegseth, a vocal advocate of his Christian faith, announced that this would become a recurring, voluntary monthly event at the Pentagon.

The service, officially titled “Secretary of Defense Christian Prayer & Worship Service,” was broadcast on the Pentagon’s internal TV network and included participation from Hegseth’s pastor, Brooks Potteiger. During the event, Potteiger offered a prayer for President Donald Trump, thanking God for using the president to bring what he described as “stability and moral clarity” to the nation and asking for continued protection over him.

Hegseth has consistently integrated his Christian beliefs into his leadership style, often referencing his faith during public speeches, congressional testimony, and media interviews. Just one day prior, he told Fox News, “Without my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I don’t have a shot,” emphasizing the central role of faith in his life and work.

Although the U.S. military is majority Christian, it comprises a diverse array of religious beliefs, including service members of other faiths and those with no religious affiliation. Non-denominational services are common across military institutions, but this explicitly Christian gathering stands out due to its leadership by a top Pentagon official.

The event reflects a growing intersection of faith and public service under the current administration and signals a new initiative to bring worship into the Pentagon on a regular basis. Hegseth encouraged participation while stressing that attendance is voluntary and open to all interested Pentagon personnel.