The United States President Trump in his second appearance at the annual National Prayer Breakfast, steered clear of partisan politics and focused on his belief in the country’s dependence on God.
“America’s a nation of believers and together we are strengthened by the power of prayer,” the president said in his 14-minute speech that emphasized connections between religion and government.
The 66th annual event, which drew more than 3,600 people to the Washington Hilton on Thursday (Feb. 8), was a time for prayer, speeches and networking between religious and political leaders from scores of countries. Guests at the breakfast of quiche, bagels and fruit salad included the presidents of Guatemala, Kosovo and Latvia.
Trump cited mentions of God in the Declaration of Independence, the words “In God We Trust” on U.S. currency and the etching of “Praise Be to God” atop the Washington Monument.
“Each year this event reminds us that faith is central to American life and to liberty,” he said. “Our rights are not given to us by man. Our rights come from our creator. No matter what, no earthly force can take those rights away.”