During the annual Thanksgiving turkey-pardoning ceremony at the White House on November 25, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered a message about the revival of faith in America. He noted an increase in people praying and demonstrating their faith, stating, “I think that is a very good thing.” This emphasis on tradition highlights the importance of spiritual life and community while suggesting a shift in public sentiment toward religion.
Long viewed as experiencing decline, organized religion seems to have not only stabilized but may have reversed its downward trajectory. Reports from Pew Research indicate a significant recovery of faith, with the number of Americans identifying as Christians halting its fall at around 62 to 64 percent. This reversal is particularly striking given that years before, in 2007, a reported 78 percent of U.S. adults identified with Christianity, only to see that number plunge in subsequent years. However, a recent study from Barna Research indicates that approximately 30 million Americans have embraced Christianity in the past five years, suggesting a time for reflection and renewal.
David Kinnaman, Barna’s CEO, described the trend as a “renewed interest in Jesus,” emphasizing that “many people have predicted the growing irrelevance of Christianity.” Yet, the evidence speaks to the contrary; spiritual interest, particularly among younger generations, is regaining strength. The study reflects, “66 percent of all U.S. adults say they have made a personal commitment to Jesus that is still important in their life today.” This marks a significant 12-percentage-point increase since 2021, when commitment levels reached their lowest in over three decades.
In his turkey pardoning speech, President Trump highlighted these encouraging signs, stating, “We have more people praying. The churches are coming back.” He underscored the value of religious life in America and addressed those who might question why he brought it up. He asserted, “To me, that’s a big deal,” suggesting a renewed national pride rooted in faith and tradition. His remarks reflect an understanding that faith is not merely a personal choice but a foundational aspect of the American experience.
In addition to his message about faith, President Trump didn’t shy away from humor, turning the spotlight on former President Biden’s use of an autopen for pardoning the Thanksgiving turkey. He quipped, “We have a Department of everything. You know what that is? I think that’s called the White House. Into a terrible situation caused by a man named Sleepy Joe Biden.” This playful jab emphasized his tendency to highlight what he perceives as the shortcomings of his predecessor while keeping the audience engaged with levity.
Trump continued the playful banter by questioning the validity of last year’s turkey pardons due to Biden’s record, stating, “So I have the official duty to determine—and I have determined—that last year’s turkey pardons are totally invalid. As are the pardons of about every other person that was pardoned, other than… where’s Hunter?” This humorous commentary connected with the crowd while reinforcing his stance as a leader willing to challenge the status quo.
President Trump’s speech during the Thanksgiving turkey pardon ceremony did more than just highlight the holiday tradition. It reflected a slowly but surely rebounding faith landscape in America. Alongside humor directed at the previous administration, Trump’s message emphasized that spiritual life may be reinvigorated, resonating with those who hold faith close to their hearts. As American society continues to grapple with evolving norms and values, these moments of introspection about religion and faith may offer a glimmer of hope for many looking to reconnect with their roots.
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