Franklin Graham joined faith leaders at the White House Easter lunch on April 1, 2026, delivering a prayer during a Holy Week gathering that emphasized religious faith, national leadership, and global concerns.
The event, hosted as part of a broader series of Holy Week observances, brought together clergy, government officials, and guests for worship, prayer, and reflection ahead of Easter Sunday, with Donald Trump in attendance.
During the gathering, Graham prayed for the protection of the Jewish people, for strength over America's military, and for wisdom and guidance for the president. Drawing from the Book of Esther, he referenced the biblical account of deliverance and framed his prayer around themes of divine protection and leadership in times of crisis. He also prayed for the people of Iran, asking God to bring freedom and deliverance amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Graham concluded with a proclamation of the gospel, affirming the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and emphasizing salvation through God's grace.
The Easter lunch was one of several faith-centered events held at the White House during Holy Week 2026, which also included worship music, additional clergy prayers, and gatherings recognizing both Easter and Passover. Organizers highlighted religious liberty and public expressions of faith as central themes throughout the week.
The moment comes as Donald Trump recently shared a private letter he received from Franklin Graham dated October 15, 2025, outlining the core message of the Christian gospel. The letter underscores that salvation is not achieved through personal works or success, but through the grace of God and the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The public release of the letter has drawn attention for its clear presentation of Christian doctrine at the highest level of public leadership, reinforcing the ongoing intersection of faith and governance during the Easter season.
