The day before his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump is scheduled to attend an interfaith prayer service in Washington, D.C.
However, critics are raising eyebrows over what’s being called a “pay-to-pray” event, where wealthy donors can secure tickets based on their contributions to Trump’s inaugural committee... Continue reading here ▶
Donor Perks for Inaugural Events
According to Religion News Service (RNS), Trump’s inaugural committee has offered a tiered system of benefits for donors, with bigger checks earning more exclusive access.
- On January 18, donors can attend a “Make America Great Again Victory Rally,” a Cabinet reception, and a dinner with Vice President-elect J.D. Vance.
- On January 19, donors who contribute $100,000 or raise $200,000 will receive two tickets to the “One America, One Light Sunday Service.”
RNS reporter Jack Jenkins described the setup as a “pay-to-pray” arrangement, sparking criticism about the intersection of faith and political fundraising.
Uncertainty Around the Prayer Service
Details about the “One America, One Light Sunday Service” remain unclear. The location and host for the event have not been confirmed, and questions about its organization linger.
Meanwhile, Sean Feucht, a conservative evangelical activist known for his Christian nationalist stance, has planned a separate event on January 19 called “Revive in ’25.” Feucht’s event is reportedly set to take place at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church on Capitol Hill.
However, Rev. William H. Gurnee, pastor at St. Joseph’s, stated that he hadn’t granted permission for Feucht’s event to be held at his church.
“While I was asked to host the event, I informed the organizer that I needed more information, and it was mistakenly reported that final permission was granted,” Gurnee told RNS. “It is my feeling that this event would be better hosted at another location.”
Despite the pushback, Feucht remained defiant. In a post on his X account, he wrote, “This is STILL happening. ‘Judah will go first’ on January 19.”
