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Pentagon Hosts First Christmas Service, Promotes Faith in Military

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 17, 2025, the Pentagon held its first Christmas worship service, led by Rev. Franklin Graham.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attended briefly after honoring fallen soldiers at Dover Air Force Base.
The outdoor service featured performances by Christian singers Matthew West and Anne Wilson.
Hegseth said faith strengthens the military and announced plans to reform the chaplain corps, criticizing secular humanism.

History

Historical Context

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower reaffirmed faith's role in American life by declaring "In God We Trust" as the national motto. This connection between religion and military culture is evident in the Pentagon's Christmas worship service led by Rev. Franklin Graham, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's remarks on faith's significance highlight ongoing tensions with secular humanism within the armed forces.

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Story summary

On December 17, 2025, the Pentagon held its first Christmas worship service, led by Rev. Franklin Graham.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attended briefly after honoring fallen soldiers at Dover Air Force Base.
The outdoor service featured performances by Christian singers Matthew West and Anne Wilson.
Hegseth said faith strengthens the military and announced plans to reform the chaplain corps, criticizing secular humanism.

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