Yesterday, the Religious Liberty Commission that was created in May by an Executive Order of Donald Trump held its second hearing (Video of full hearing). The hearing was held at The Museum of the Bible. President Trump was a featured speaker (video of Trump's remarks) (transcript of Trump's remarks). His wide-ranging speech began with the President saying, in part:
... America was founded on faith, as we know and I've been saying it for a long time. And when faith gets weaker, our country seems to get weaker. When faith gets stronger, as it is right now, we're having a very good period of time after some rough years, good things happen for our country. It's amazing the way it seems to work that way. And under the Trump administration, we're defending our rights and restoring our identity as a nation under God. We are one nation under God, and we always will be....
... I'm pleased to announce this morning that the Department of Education will soon issue new guidance protecting the right to prayer in our public schools and its total protection....
During his remarks, the President invited Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner to speak about developments. Turner said in part:
How many know we have a godly, faithful cabinet? And a cabinet that prioritizes prayer. On July 3rd, Mr. President, of this year, you kicked off the year-long celebration of America's 250th birthday in Iowa. You invited America's faith communities to come together to pray for our country. Well, Mr. President, America's faith communities are responding with overwhelming enthusiasm.... Today, more than 70 major faith organizations and churches have joined together to participate in what we're calling America Prays....
... What if 1 million people prayed for our country every single week between now and next July 4th? ... What if believers all across this great nation got together with 10 people, friends, family members, colleagues, work associates, ten people each week to pray for our country and for our fellow citizens.... Think about the transformation that you and I could witness in communities all across the land. Sons returning to their fathers. Daughters returning to their mothers. Families coming back together. Health being restored. Financial needs being met. Mountains being moved.... We're a nation that has always believed in the power of prayer....
... Lord, not just Democrat, not just Republican, but all American people will come together under the banner of Yahweh of God Almighty. And Lord God, we praise you. And we thank you. And we love you. In Jesus name, Amen. [Audience members respond "Amen"]
The White House posted a press release summarizing the main points of Trump's speech. USA Today reports on the hearing. The White House yesterday also issued a press release titled "President Trump’s Top 100 Victories for People of Faith."
