Trump Touts 'Resurgence of Religion' in Good Friday Message

Former president claims churches are 'fuller, younger, and more faithful' under his leadership.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:34am

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A cinematic painting of a solitary figure of a former president standing alone in the Oval Office, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the weight of political power.In a divisive political era, the former president's embrace of faith and religion highlights the enduring role of spirituality in American public life.Butler Today

In a Good Friday address, former President Donald Trump celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ and declared that religion is experiencing a 'resurgence' across the United States during his second term. Trump framed his message with faith as a central pillar of American strength, pointing to what he described as a broader cultural shift back toward religion.

Why it matters

Trump's outspoken approach to the Christian holiday stands in contrast to his predecessor, as he has been more candid in his approach to his faith since surviving an assassination attempt in 2024. The president has invited prayer and faith back into the public square, which aligns with his base but may be divisive for others.

The details

In the video shared on Truth Social, Trump said 'to be a great nation you must have religion and you must have God.' He claimed that in churches across the nation on Sunday, the pews will be 'fuller, younger, and more faithful than they have at time in many, many years.' The president also invoked scripture, quoting John 3:16, and ended his remarks by wishing everyone a blessed holiday.

  • Trump delivered the Good Friday message on April 4, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who delivered the Good Friday message celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and claiming a 'resurgence of religion' in the country during his second term.

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What they’re saying

“As I have often said, to be a great nation you must have religion and you must have God.”

— Donald Trump, Former President

“In his life, Christ displayed true humility. In His death, He modeled true love.”

— Donald Trump, Former President

“As it says in Gospel of John, for God so loved the world that He gave His only son, for whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

— Donald Trump, Former President

The takeaway

Trump's emphasis on religion and faith as a central part of American identity reflects his efforts to appeal to his conservative Christian base, but may also be seen as divisive by those who view the separation of church and state as a core democratic principle.