A National Prayer for the United States’ 250th Anniversary
On June 13, 2026, Catholics across the United States gathered at the La Crosse Center to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with prayer, reflection, and a vision for renewal. The event, organized by CatholicVote and led by Cardinal Raymond L. Burke, welcomed thousands in person and hosted a free livestream to reach believers nationwide.
Cardinal Burke opened the rally with an invocation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, reminding participants that patriotism is rooted in love for God and the common good. He emphasized that the laws of our democracy must align with objective moral truth, urging citizens to pray for a nation that consistently upholds natural law and stewardship of the earth and its people.
Federal guest speakers—media commentator Michael Knowles, Catholic‑conservative columnist Isabel Brown, former football coach Joe Lombardi, and Father Ambrose Criste—shared testimonies that the American story is intertwined with faith. Keynote remarks highlighted how Catholics have historically shaped the country’s civic life, from founding saints to contemporary leaders who champion social justice.
For the audience, the rally offered more than speeches. Delegates could participate in Mass, confession, and the veneration of a relic of the True Cross. The event also featured performances by country artist Bradley Banning and a mobile museum exploring early acts of faith in America. Together these moments fostered a sense of communal worship and tangible connection to the nation’s spiritual heritage.
Los Angeles and the Vatican’s experience working with CatholicVote during the “America Prays” initiative demonstrates the national reach of this spiritual renewal. By providing daily prayers, an eight‑part video series on the virtue of patriotism, and access to sacred relics, the movement encourages ordinary Catholics to make prayer a central part of their civic lives.
While the rally was sold out, the free livestream extended its reach, allowing Americans who could not attend in person to partake in collective prayer. CatholicVote’s registration page announced that thousands had already signed up, underscoring the demand for more inclusive prayer opportunities as the country approaches its milestone.
As the nation looks ahead, the event’s calls for “a renewed confidence that God still has a providential purpose for America” echo Kelsey Reinhardt’s message that faith and patriotism must go hand in hand. The rally serves as a reminder that the future of the United States rests not only on political action but also on devotion, virtue, and a shared commitment to God’s providence.
In closing, Cardinal Burke offered a blessing with a relic of the True Cross, and the assembled community rose in prayer for a renewed nation, guided by faith.