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Fact Check: In May 2023, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth led an evangelical prayer service at the Pentagon, where he prayed to 'our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.'

Fact Check: In May 2023, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth led an evangelical prayer service at the Pentagon, where he prayed to 'our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.'

Published June 14, 2025
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# Fact Check: "In May 2023, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth led an evangelical prayer service at the Pentagon, where he prayed to 'our Lord and savi...

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Fact Check: "In May 2023, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth led an evangelical prayer service at the Pentagon, where he prayed to 'our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.'"

What We Know

In May 2023, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth indeed led a Christian prayer service at the Pentagon. This event, described as the “Secretary of Defense Christian Prayer & Worship Service,” took place in the Pentagon's auditorium during working hours and was attended by military personnel and civilian employees. Hegseth expressed his intention for this service to become a monthly occurrence (New York Times, Reuters).

During the service, Hegseth prayed, “It is in the name of our lord and savior, Jesus Christ, that we pray,” which was echoed by attendees who responded with “Amen” (New York Times, Church Leaders). The event also featured a sermon by Pastor Brooks Potteiger, who praised President Trump as a leader appointed by God (Church Leaders).

Analysis

The claim that Hegseth led a prayer service where he prayed to "our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ" is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The New York Times and Reuters, both reputable news organizations, reported on the event, detailing Hegseth's remarks and the context of the service (New York Times, Reuters).

Critics have raised concerns about the appropriateness of such an event occurring within a government setting, particularly given its overtly Christian nature and the potential implications for the separation of church and state (Church Leaders). However, the event was voluntary, and Hegseth encouraged attendance among military personnel and staff, which adds a layer of complexity regarding the implications of participation (New York Times).

The sources used in this analysis are reliable, but it's important to note that some may have biases, particularly those that focus on the implications of the event within the broader context of government and religion (Washington Stand). Nonetheless, the factual basis of the claim remains intact.

Conclusion

The claim that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth led a prayer service at the Pentagon in May 2023, during which he prayed to "our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ," is True. The event was well-documented, and Hegseth's specific prayer was quoted in multiple reputable sources.

Sources

  1. Pete Hegseth Leads Christian Prayer Service in ...
  2. US defense chief Hegseth leads Christian prayer service at ...
  3. Pete Hegseth Receives Praise, Raises Concerns With Pentagon Prayer Service
  4. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Leads Christian Prayer ...
  5. Hegseth hosts first meeting of what he says will be a monthly ...
  6. Pete Hegseth Calls Jesus His "Lord And Savior," Leads Prayer Service At ...
  7. Pete Hegseth Sparks Criticism for Prayer to 'King Jesus' at Pentagon Event
  8. Pete Hegseth's 'Incredibly Problematic' Pentagon Event Raises Serious Concerns
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Fact Check: In May 2023, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth led an evangelical prayer service at the Pentagon, where he prayed to 'our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.' | TruthOrFake Blog