(ZENIT News / New York, 01.10.2024).- In a symbolic nod to faith’s enduring role in the American presidency, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, will deliver the opening prayer at Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, marking the second time he has performed this honor for the president-elect.
Speaking with WPIX on Christmas Eve, Dolan confirmed his participation, reflecting on his 2017 prayer during Trump’s first inauguration and the renewed significance of this moment. “The president kindly asked me again,” Dolan said. “I told him, ‘Well, I did it eight years ago. Let’s hope this one works as well.’”
Faith Amidst Challenges
Dolan’s involvement carries weight beyond tradition. He has been a vocal observer of Trump’s spiritual evolution, describing the president-elect, a self-identified non-denominational Christian, as someone “serious about his faith.”
This journey of faith appears intertwined with Trump’s tumultuous 2024 campaign, which was marked by two assassination attempts. In July, Trump survived a shooting at a Pennsylvania rally that left one dead and six injured. Later, in September, a separate attempt was foiled as he played golf in Florida.
Reflecting on these events, Dolan drew parallels to the experiences of former President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II, who famously bonded over their shared survival of assassination attempts. “Reagan told the pope, ‘Mother Teresa said God spared me for a purpose.’ And John Paul replied, ‘She told me the same. Let’s work together.’ I reminded President Trump of this story, and I think it resonated deeply with him,” Dolan shared.
A Prayer for Unity and Wisdom
While Dolan has not disclosed his prayer for this year, his 2017 invocation drew from the Book of Wisdom, calling for divine guidance: “Grant wisdom to those who serve, for without it, even the perfect among mortals are nothing.” This theme of humility and reliance on higher wisdom may once again shape his message, given the political and social divisions facing the nation.
Dolan’s role underscores the spiritual underpinnings of an inauguration often framed as a secular ceremony. “Faith is a gift—it’s God’s initiative, not ours,” Dolan said. “It’s not our energy that drives it; we simply must accept and cooperate.”
The Role of Prayer in Presidential Tradition
Trump’s choice of Dolan reflects a continuity of incorporating religious voices into inaugural ceremonies. In 2021, Jesuit priest Leo J. O’Donovan opened President Joe Biden’s inauguration with a call for humility and inclusion, reflecting the moral aspirations of the nation.
Trump’s administration, however, often presents faith as a personal journey intertwined with resilience. In addition to Dolan’s prayer, Trump has planned an interfaith service on January 19, emphasizing unity through shared values.
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