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Controversial Pastor Leads Prayer Service at Pentagon Amid Criticism

KVIA•Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 6:17 PM•CNN Newsource

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Douglas Wilson, a pastor known for his extreme views on women's rights and Christian nationalism, led a prayer service at the Pentagon this week, invited by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Wilson's sermon, which included military-themed jokes, has sparked backlash due to his beliefs, including advocating for a Christian theocracy and repealing women's voting rights. Critics, including Kris Fuhr from the Women in the Service Coalition, condemned the event as inappropriate and contrary to Army values. This service is part of a monthly series initiated by Hegseth, raising concerns about the erosion of the separation of church and state in government institutions.

Key Details: • Douglas Wilson led a prayer service at the Pentagon on Tuesday. • Wilson advocates for repealing the 19th Amendment and believes in a patriarchal society. • Critics argue this undermines the values of inclusivity and equality in the military. • Hegseth has been criticized for his influence from Wilson and the implications for military leadership.

pentagon defense-department christian-nationalism women-rights separation-of-church-and-state

People & Organizations

TennesseeDepartment of DefensePete HegsethDouglas WilsonKris FuhrPentagonMoscow, IdahoCongregation of Reformed Evangelical ChurchesWomen in the Service Coalition

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