You never really expect to see a news channel showing their anchors lead prayer on air because, usually, channels will want to keep things secular for their viewers. But Fox News host Pete Hegseth had some other ideas. In a surprising segment sponsored by a Bible app, Hegseth asked his co-hosts and viewers of “Fox & Friends” to join him in prayer.
Hegseth began by lightening the atmosphere, saying, “We have more ‘Fox & Friends’ coming up, but you know what, this is a transition for transitions if you’ve ever had one,” which prompted laughter from his co-hosts. Rachel Campos-Duffy then chimed in, “So ‘Fox & Friends’.” To which Hegseth humorously agreed, “This is very ‘Fox & Friends,’ so ready your heart.”
“It’s the 5th Sunday of Lent, and our prayer series continues with the reading of prayer from the Hallow app,” Hegseth continued. “We all need it, let’s do it this morning, close your eyes — if you would, bow your head.”
As his co-hosts Campos-Duffy and Will Cain respectfully bowed their heads, Hegseth led the prayer on-screen, reading from the Hallow app. He prayed, “Jesus, today we begin the holy period of passion tide. In these last 2 weeks of Lent, help us understand the mystery of your sacrifice and surrender, make us keenly aware of your love for us. We ask that you make yourself known to us, help us to feel the grace of your presence.”
Hegseth concluded the prayer by expressing gratitude to Christ for his selfless love shown on the cross and thanked the Hallow app for partnering with the show during Lent. Campos-Duffy chipped in with a heartfelt “Amen.”
This display of faith on-air is not uncommon for Fox News hosts. On a previous segment about Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, host Kayleigh McEnany expressed her belief that he thinks God is leading the way.
“To everyone out there, pray for him as our speaker,” co-host Ainsley Earhardt added. “Our country really needs some guidance from God right now.”
While the freedom to practice religion is universally acknowledged, this on-air prayer seemed to have offended some individuals. However, many others saw it as a positive initiative. It sparked a conversation among viewers, with some expressing skepticism while others appreciated the hosts’ willingness to take a moment for prayer.
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