Defense secretary’s evangelical service sparks criticism over religious freedom in the military

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held a worship service at the Pentagon on Oct. 19, 2026, inviting his personal spiritual adviser to lead the gathering and describing the department’s mission in terms such as the \"armor of God\" and the \"real battle is spiritual\".

The event has drawn sharp criticism from religious‑freedom advocates who argue that a senior military leader’s use of overt evangelical language and the establishment of a new Office of Religious Affairs cross constitutional lines and could pressure service members to conform to a particular faith.

Rachel Laser, president of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, said the plan "elevates Christianity to an even higher role in shaping U.S. military policy" and advances a "Christian nationalist agenda."

"Today, at my direction, I'm establishing the Office of Religious Affairs. It will report straight to the top, a direct line to the secretary," Hegseth said, quoting Psalm 33:12: "Blessed is the nation in which God is the Lord."

Legal scholars note that the Constitution protects both free exercise of religion and prohibits government establishment of religion, a balance historically upheld by the military’s chaplaincy. The Department of Defense’s own guidance stresses that chaplains serve a pluralistic force, offering support without imposing belief.

Critics also point to the concept of "command climate," warning that senior officers’ public expressions of faith can create subtle pressure on subordinates whose careers depend on evaluations and promotions. The concern is that service members might feel compelled to participate in religious activities to demonstrate loyalty.

Hegseth’s defenders argue that faith is a source of strength for many soldiers and that the Secretary’s personal convictions do not preclude respectful accommodation of all beliefs. They note that the military already provides robust religious‑accommodation policies.

The controversy is likely to prompt further review of how religious expression is managed within the Pentagon, with civil‑rights groups urging the Department to reaffirm its commitment to protecting the religious liberty of every service member.