Faith’s Role in History: Rediscovering God in America with Gingrich

Good morning, everyone. Today, we are embarking on a journey through faith, history, and the legacy that has shaped our great nation. It’s an imaginary conversation that reaches beyond politics and culture to touch on the very foundation of America’s identity—faith.

I’ve brought together some of the most influential voices of our time to discuss these profound ideas, inspired by Rediscovering God in America, a work by none other than Newt Gingrich. This book is a love letter to the enduring role of faith in our nation’s story, and tonight, we’ll dive deep into the conversations it has sparked.

Joining us is the author himself, Newt Gingrich, who will share his thoughts on faith’s role in shaping America’s governance and legacy. We’re also honored to have former President Donald Trump, whose policies and personal convictions have shaped the modern conversation on religious freedom.

And as if that wasn’t enough, we are graced with the presence of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, a global spiritual leader whose message of unity and love transcends boundaries. Together, these great minds will explore the challenges faith faces in modern times and how we can preserve its guiding principles for future generations.

This isn’t just a discussion—it’s an opportunity to reflect, learn, and find inspiration for the path ahead. So, let’s begin this powerful conversation about Rediscovering God in America. Please welcome our extraordinary panel!

The Role of Faith in America's Founding and Governance

Moderator (Nick Sasaki):
Welcome, everyone. Today, we're discussing the role of faith in America's founding and governance. Our esteemed panel includes Newt Gingrich, Donald Trump, Rev. Sun Myung Moon, and several other thought leaders. Let's start with Newt Gingrich to set the stage.

Newt Gingrich:
Thank you, Nick. The Founding Fathers built America on a foundation of faith. This is evident in the Declaration of Independence, which acknowledges that our rights come from our Creator. This belief in divine providence shaped not only our founding documents but also our laws and moral compass.

Religious liberty was a cornerstone of their vision. They believed in the freedom of religion, not freedom from religion, allowing faith to flourish without government interference. The motto "In God We Trust," adopted much later, encapsulates this enduring relationship between faith and governance.

Biblical principles informed our early laws, reflecting values of justice, equality, and responsibility. Leaders like George Washington often invoked God in their writings and actions, emphasizing the role of faith in shaping public life. America's monuments and historical sites reflect this spiritual heritage, serving as reminders of the moral guidance faith provides to a democratic society.

David Barton:
Newt, I couldn't agree more. The Founding Fathers didn't see faith as a private matter; they viewed it as the bedrock of public virtue. For example, the Northwest Ordinance explicitly stated that "religion, morality, and knowledge" were necessary for good government. Faith was intertwined with governance to ensure accountability and moral leadership.

Donald Trump:
You’re absolutely right, David. Faith is what has kept this country strong. During my presidency, I emphasized the importance of religious freedom because without it, we lose what makes America exceptional. Look at how the Founding Fathers openly referenced God in their writings and decisions. It’s also why I supported initiatives that protected places of worship and religious communities. Faith isn’t just tradition—it’s our lifeblood as a nation.

Eric Metaxas:
Adding to that, Donald, the Founders believed that morality and faith were indispensable to the republic. John Adams famously said, "Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other." Faith ensures that freedom doesn’t devolve into chaos.

Rev. Sun Myung Moon:
(Through a translator) Thank you for inviting me to this important discussion. What you are describing aligns deeply with the principles I have taught throughout my life. Faith is not merely a personal matter—it is a divine covenant that guides nations. God’s providence was at work in the founding of America, ensuring this nation would become a beacon of freedom and morality for the world.

The Founding Fathers were instruments of this providence. Their acknowledgment of divine principles allowed America to prosper. However, faith must be continually nurtured, or its influence will fade. America's strength lies in its commitment to God-centered principles, but this commitment must be renewed in every generation.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you, Rev. Moon. Newt, how do you see faith playing a role in today’s governance compared to the founding era?

Newt Gingrich:
Great question, Nick. Today, we see challenges to the public role of faith, but its importance remains. Faith instills a moral compass in leaders and citizens alike. Without it, government risks losing its ethical foundation. The Founders understood that a democracy depends on virtuous citizens, and faith is a primary source of that virtue.

Modern governance should reflect this understanding by protecting religious freedom and encouraging faith-based contributions to society. When leaders acknowledge God’s role in their decisions, as Abraham Lincoln did during the Civil War, it provides moral clarity in times of crisis.

Donald Trump:
I agree, Newt. During my time in office, I saw how people of faith rallied to protect our values. I made it a priority to defend religious liberty because I knew that faith-driven communities are the backbone of our nation. Without faith, we lose our sense of purpose and unity.

Rev. Moon:
This is true, Mr. Trump. Faith is the root of love, morality, and unity. Without it, a nation cannot stand. America has a divine mission to lead the world not only through power but through spiritual guidance. That mission requires a revival of the founding principles you speak of—principles rooted in God’s will.

Nick Sasaki:
What a rich discussion! Let’s move toward practical applications. Rev. Moon, how can America renew its faith-based governance in modern times?

Rev. Moon:
America must turn its heart back to God. This can happen through education that emphasizes moral and spiritual values, stronger families centered on faith, and leaders who exemplify God’s principles. Religious leaders must unite to inspire a cultural transformation, and political leaders must uphold the divine values upon which this nation was founded.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you, Rev. Moon. To conclude, Newt, do you have any final thoughts on preserving the role of faith in America’s governance?

Newt Gingrich:
Yes, Nick. Preserving faith in governance begins with recognizing its indispensable role in our history and identity. It requires leaders, educators, and citizens to champion religious freedom, teach moral values, and uphold the spiritual heritage reflected in our founding. Faith isn’t just a private belief—it’s the foundation of a thriving democracy.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you, everyone. This conversation has truly illuminated the enduring importance of faith in America’s founding and governance. Let’s continue to reflect on these principles as we navigate the challenges of our time.

Faith Reflected in National Symbols and Monuments

Nick Sasaki:
Welcome, everyone, to our next discussion on faith’s reflection in America’s national symbols and monuments. To begin, Newt Gingrich will provide some foundational insights.

Newt Gingrich:
Thank you, Nick. Washington, D.C., is a city rich with symbols of faith. Many of the monuments and buildings here were designed to reflect the moral and spiritual values upon which America was founded. For example, the Lincoln Memorial includes phrases from his second inaugural address, which acknowledges God's role in guiding the nation during the Civil War.

The Jefferson Memorial also highlights Thomas Jefferson's reflections on divine justice, such as his quote, “I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just.” Even the Capitol Rotunda features artwork and inscriptions that reflect the influence of faith in shaping our laws and governance.

These monuments were not created by accident. They were built to remind us that faith and morality are integral to our national identity and that public life is enriched by acknowledging God’s presence.

Callista Gingrich:
As Newt mentioned, the monuments tell a story of a nation guided by divine principles. When I worked on Rediscovering God in America, I was struck by how many of our founding symbols have explicit references to God or biblical principles. These monuments are more than historical—they are spiritual beacons reminding us of the importance of faith.

Donald Trump:
That’s very true. I’ve always admired the beauty and power of these monuments. During my presidency, I emphasized protecting these symbols because they reflect who we are as a people. Look at how the Washington Monument literally points to the heavens—it’s a clear sign that faith was central to the Founders’ vision. These landmarks remind us of our heritage and what we must protect in a changing world.

Eric Metaxas:
Donald, I completely agree. The faith-based symbolism in Washington, D.C., isn’t just decoration—it’s a deliberate reminder of the moral foundation required for liberty. The Founders knew that a government without virtue would fail, and these monuments reflect their hope that future generations would draw strength from God.

Rev. Moon:
(Through a translator) The monuments of Washington, D.C., carry profound spiritual significance. They are not only symbols of America’s history but also of God’s providence. The inscriptions and design of these landmarks reflect the belief that America is a nation under God’s guidance. However, monuments alone cannot sustain faith. They must inspire people to live according to the divine principles they represent.

For example, the Lincoln Memorial calls us to reflect on justice and reconciliation, while the Jefferson Memorial reminds us of accountability to God. These lessons are timeless and must guide us today as they did during the founding era.

Nick Sasaki:
Rev. Moon, that’s a powerful point about how these symbols inspire action. Newt, do you think these symbols still resonate with modern Americans?

Newt Gingrich:
They do, Nick, but perhaps not as strongly as they once did. That’s why education is critical. We need to teach young people the stories behind these monuments—the faith, courage, and conviction of the leaders they honor. If we lose that connection, the symbols risk becoming mere relics rather than living reminders of our moral foundation.

Donald Trump:
That’s exactly why I fought to preserve our monuments during my administration. They aren’t just stone and metal—they’re part of the soul of this nation. I think we need to do more to protect these landmarks from both physical destruction and the cultural neglect that erases their meaning.

Rev. Moon:
Donald and Newt are right. Protecting these monuments is essential, but we must also renew the faith they represent. A monument is powerful only if the people who see it are connected to its deeper spiritual message. America must rekindle its connection to God so that these symbols remain living testaments to divine guidance.

Nick Sasaki:
What a fascinating discussion. To close, how can we ensure that the spiritual messages of these monuments endure for future generations?

Newt Gingrich:
We need to prioritize education and public engagement. By teaching the next generation about the spiritual and historical significance of these landmarks, we can ensure that their meaning isn’t lost. Faith must remain central to our national story.

Donald Trump:
I agree. We need leaders who value our heritage and aren’t afraid to defend it. Faith-based organizations can also play a big role in connecting people to the history behind these symbols.

Rev. Moon:
The preservation of faith requires action, education, and leadership. If America can return to its spiritual roots, these monuments will continue to inspire future generations to seek justice, morality, and unity under God.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you, everyone. This conversation has truly highlighted the profound connection between faith, history, and America’s national symbols. Let us all take inspiration from the monuments and live out the values they represent.

Faith’s Influence on Key Historical Moments

Nick Sasaki:
Welcome to our discussion on how faith has shaped key historical moments in America. Joining us are Newt Gingrich, Donald Trump, Rev. Sun Myung Moon, and our panelists. Newt, let’s begin with your thoughts.

Newt Gingrich:
Thank you, Nick. Faith has always been a cornerstone in America’s pivotal moments. Take the Civil War, for example. Abraham Lincoln’s leadership was deeply rooted in his evolving relationship with God. His second inaugural address explicitly acknowledges the nation’s collective accountability to God for the sin of slavery and reflects on divine justice and reconciliation.

Another example is the civil rights movement, led by faith-driven leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His commitment to nonviolence and justice was anchored in his Christian beliefs. Faith wasn’t just a motivator for personal conviction—it was a force that unified people and inspired action during some of our darkest times.

Faith has also guided presidents during wars and crises. George Washington invoked God during the Revolutionary War, and Franklin Roosevelt called for prayer during World War II. These moments remind us that faith provides moral clarity and resilience in the face of immense challenges.

Dr. Alveda King:
Newt, you’re absolutely right. My uncle, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., often said, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” His belief in a higher power gave him the courage to face insurmountable odds, and it was the spiritual foundation of the entire civil rights movement.

Donald Trump:
I’ve seen this firsthand as well. Faith has always been a source of strength for the American people. During my presidency, I worked closely with many faith leaders, and their guidance was invaluable, especially during times of crisis. The power of prayer and unity through faith can move mountains. Look at how Americans came together during moments like 9/11—it’s faith that binds us as a nation during those times.

Eric Metaxas:
Donald, that’s a great point. Faith also acts as a moral compass during times of uncertainty. During the Civil War, Lincoln often reflected on God’s will, which helped him navigate the immense burden of leadership. And during the Cold War, faith was a unifying force against the threat of atheistic communism. Faith doesn’t just inspire—it also provides the framework for making difficult decisions.

Rev. Moon:
(Through a translator) Thank you for this opportunity to speak. Faith is the guiding light in history’s most transformative moments. Without God’s influence, leaders would falter in the face of challenges. Lincoln’s humility before God, Dr. King’s dedication to justice, and even Washington’s perseverance were all manifestations of divine providence.

However, we must remember that faith is not passive. It calls for action. Leaders must embody faith in their decisions, and citizens must support them through prayer, unity, and moral integrity. This partnership between leaders and the people is essential for fulfilling God’s purpose in history.

Nick Sasaki:
Rev. Moon, that’s a profound perspective. Newt, what do you think about faith’s role in shaping leaders’ decisions during these moments?

Newt Gingrich:
Faith gives leaders a sense of accountability beyond themselves. When Lincoln spoke of “the Almighty’s purposes,” he was acknowledging that his decisions were not just political—they had moral and spiritual weight. Leaders like him understood that their actions must align with higher principles, even if those principles are difficult to follow in the moment.

Donald Trump:
Exactly. Faith isn’t just personal; it’s a responsibility. When I was in office, I recognized that my decisions affected millions of lives. Faith gave me the strength to stand firm on policies that protected American values and freedoms. It’s about knowing you’re accountable to something greater than yourself.

Rev. Moon:
Faith also provides clarity in times of uncertainty. When leaders seek God’s guidance, they can rise above personal ambition and focus on the greater good. This is why I have always emphasized the importance of prayer and unity in leadership. Through faith, leaders can transcend human limitations and fulfill their divine missions.

Nick Sasaki:
That’s inspiring. What about ordinary citizens during these key historical moments? How has faith united and empowered the people?

Newt Gingrich:
Faith has always been a unifying force. During the civil rights movement, churches were the backbone of the struggle. They provided not only moral guidance but also a physical space for organizing and rallying. Similarly, during World War II, faith united Americans through prayer, sacrifice, and a shared sense of purpose.

Dr. Alveda King:
Yes, faith empowers the people. During the civil rights movement, hymns and prayers gave us courage and reminded us of God’s justice. Without that spiritual foundation, the movement would not have been as powerful or as enduring.

Donald Trump:
Faith is what gives ordinary citizens extraordinary strength. I’ve seen how faith-based communities rally to support each other during disasters and crises. It’s that shared belief in God’s goodness and justice that keeps people going, even when times are tough.

Rev. Moon:
Faith is the lifeblood of a nation. When people are united under God, they can achieve great things, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Faith inspires love, courage, and selflessness—qualities that are essential for overcoming challenges and building a better future.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you all for this inspiring discussion. To close, what lesson can we take from faith’s role in historical moments as we face challenges in our time?

Newt Gingrich:
The lesson is clear: faith provides the moral compass and strength we need to navigate difficult times. It unites us as a nation and inspires leaders to make decisions that align with higher principles.

Donald Trump:
Faith is the foundation of America’s greatness. If we stay true to our spiritual heritage, we can overcome any challenge and continue to thrive as a nation.

Rev. Moon:
Faith must not only be remembered but also lived. By turning to God in prayer and action, both leaders and citizens can fulfill their roles in God’s plan for humanity. This is the key to America’s future.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you, everyone. This discussion has truly shown how faith has shaped history and how it remains vital today. Let’s take these lessons to heart as we move forward.

Challenges to Faith in Modern America

Nick Sasaki:
Welcome to our discussion on the challenges to faith in modern America. Today, Newt Gingrich, Donald Trump, Rev. Sun Myung Moon, and our distinguished panelists will explore how faith continues to face secular and cultural challenges. Newt, let’s begin with you.

Newt Gingrich:
Thank you, Nick. The challenges to faith in America today are substantial, but they are not insurmountable. One of the biggest issues we face is cultural secularism, which seeks to remove faith from the public square entirely. We’ve seen prayer taken out of schools, and religious symbols are often under attack in public spaces.

This shift isn’t just a rejection of religion—it’s a rejection of the moral framework that has guided this country since its founding. Our Constitution was designed for a moral and religious people, as John Adams famously said. Without that moral foundation, we risk losing the values of accountability, integrity, and service that are essential for a functioning democracy.

The courts have also played a role. Over the decades, judicial interpretations have often eroded the presence of faith in public life, turning religious liberty into a narrower and more private concept. This is a dangerous trend that we must address.

Rod Dreher:
Newt, you’re absolutely right. We’re seeing a shift where secularism isn’t just about neutrality—it’s becoming an aggressive force that marginalizes people of faith. In my book, The Benedict Option, I argue that faith communities must strengthen themselves internally, creating spaces where they can thrive despite cultural pressures.

Donald Trump:
Rod, that’s a great point. During my presidency, I saw firsthand how faith-based communities were being sidelined. That’s why I made it a priority to defend religious liberty. I signed executive orders protecting faith-based organizations and fought against policies that tried to force religious groups to compromise their values. Faith isn’t something to be hidden—it’s something to be celebrated.

William Lane Craig:
Donald, I appreciate your efforts in that regard. One of the deeper challenges we face today is philosophical: many people see religion as outdated or irrelevant. The rise of materialism and skepticism has led to a culture that often denies the need for God altogether. We need to engage with this challenge intellectually, showing that faith is not only reasonable but essential for a meaningful life.

Rev. Moon:
(Through a translator) This rejection of faith is not only a cultural issue—it is a spiritual crisis. When people abandon God, they lose their sense of purpose and connection to one another. America’s strength has always come from its relationship with God, but this relationship is being weakened by materialism, secularism, and moral confusion.

Faith is not something to be removed from public life—it is the foundation of public life. Leaders, educators, and families must work together to bring faith back to the center of American culture. Without this revival, the nation risks losing its divine mission.

Nick Sasaki:
Rev. Moon, that’s a profound observation. Newt, you mentioned the courts earlier. How can we address the legal challenges to faith in public life?

Newt Gingrich:
Nick, we need leaders who understand the importance of religious liberty and are willing to defend it. That includes appointing judges who respect the Constitution’s original intent regarding freedom of religion. But beyond the courts, it’s also about grassroots action. Faith communities must advocate for their rights and engage in the political process to ensure their voices are heard.

Donald Trump:
Absolutely, Newt. That’s why I focused on appointing judges who believe in the Constitution. But it’s not just about politics. Faith leaders need to inspire their communities to stand strong. I’ve seen the power of faith-based movements, and when people unite around their values, they can overcome anything.

Rod Dreher:
Donald, that’s where I think local faith communities come in. They can be the backbone of resistance against secular pressure. By building strong, close-knit groups, faith communities can preserve their values and pass them on to the next generation.

Rev. Moon:
Resistance is important, but renewal is even more crucial. Faith must not only be defended—it must be lived. America’s churches, synagogues, and mosques must become centers of love and service, showing the power of God’s principles in action. This is how we can counteract the forces of secularism and bring people back to God.

Nick Sasaki:
Rev. Moon, that’s inspiring. For our next question, how can education play a role in addressing these challenges to faith?

Newt Gingrich:
Education is key, Nick. Our schools have become increasingly secular, often ignoring the historical and moral contributions of faith. We need to reintroduce the teaching of religious history and ethics, not to indoctrinate, but to give students a fuller understanding of the role faith has played in shaping our country.

Donald Trump:
I completely agree, Newt. During my administration, I promoted initiatives to protect students’ rights to pray in schools. If young people can’t express their faith, we’re failing them. We need to empower parents and communities to make sure their values are represented in education.

William Lane Craig:
Education also needs to address the intellectual challenges to faith. By teaching philosophy, history, and apologetics, we can equip young people to understand their beliefs and defend them in a culture that often dismisses religion.

Rev. Moon:
Education is not only about knowledge—it is about heart and character. Children must be taught to see themselves as part of God’s family, responsible for loving and serving others. Schools and families must work together to nurture faith in the next generation.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you all for these thoughtful insights. To close, what’s one action you believe faith communities or leaders should take to address these challenges?

Newt Gingrich:
Faith communities must engage more actively in the public square—whether through politics, education, or cultural dialogue. Silence is not an option.

Donald Trump:
Stand strong and stay united. Faith is the foundation of America, and if we protect it, our nation will remain strong.

William Lane Craig:
Equip believers with the intellectual tools they need to defend their faith and engage meaningfully with the modern world.

Rev. Moon:
Return to God with humility and love. Faith must be lived in every aspect of life, inspiring others through action and service.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you all for this rich discussion. It’s clear that while challenges to faith exist, the solutions lie in action, education, and a return to the values that have guided America since its founding. Let’s carry these lessons forward.

The Call to Preserve America’s Faith-Based Legacy

Nick Sasaki:
Welcome to the final discussion in our series, focusing on the call to preserve America’s faith-based legacy. Joining us are Newt Gingrich, Donald Trump, Rev. Sun Myung Moon, and our panelists. Newt, let’s start with you.

Newt Gingrich:
Thank you, Nick. Preserving America’s faith-based legacy is both a privilege and a responsibility. As we’ve discussed, the Founding Fathers understood that faith provides the moral framework necessary for freedom. However, preserving this legacy requires more than acknowledging our past—it requires action today.

Religious freedom must be protected, and faith must be actively encouraged in families, schools, and public life. Leaders must champion the importance of faith-based values in shaping policies, while individuals must take personal responsibility for living out those values in their daily lives.

Faith isn’t just a relic of history; it’s the foundation of America’s identity and its hope for the future. Without it, we risk losing the principles of unity, compassion, and justice that have made this country great.

Donald Trump:
Newt, I couldn’t agree more. During my presidency, I worked hard to ensure that America’s faith-based legacy wasn’t just preserved but strengthened. I fought to protect religious freedom and defended the rights of faith-based organizations. Our nation is strong because of its faith. When we lose sight of that, we lose what makes America exceptional.

The way forward is simple: we need leaders and citizens who aren’t afraid to stand up for their beliefs. Faith isn’t something to be pushed aside—it’s the heart of who we are as Americans.

Franklin Graham:
Donald, that’s exactly right. Faith-based communities have always been at the forefront of building and uniting this nation. From churches supporting families to faith-based charities helping the needy, faith is lived out in action. But we’re at a crossroads now. If we don’t act, we risk losing this legacy to secularism and apathy.

Rev. Moon:
(Through a translator) Thank you, Nick, and thank you, Newt and Donald, for your leadership on this issue. America’s faith-based legacy is not only important for this nation but for the entire world. God has blessed America with a unique role in history—a role to lead with faith, morality, and love.

Preserving this legacy begins in the family. Families must be the schools of love and faith, teaching children to live for the sake of others. Communities and leaders must unite to uphold the divine principles that have guided America since its founding. Faith cannot be passive—it must be lived through action, service, and unity.

Nick Sasaki:
Rev. Moon, your point about family is profound. Newt, how do you see families playing a role in preserving this legacy?

Newt Gingrich:
Families are absolutely critical, Nick. They are the first and most important place where values are taught. Parents who instill faith, morality, and a sense of purpose in their children lay the groundwork for a thriving society. But families can’t do it alone—they need the support of faith-based institutions and communities.

Churches and religious organizations must invest in family programs and education that reinforce these values. Public policy should also support strong families by encouraging religious freedom, parental rights, and educational choice. It’s a partnership between families, faith communities, and government.

Donald Trump:
Exactly. When families are strong, America is strong. That’s why I supported policies that strengthened family values and promoted faith in education. We need to give parents the tools to teach their children about faith and ensure that our schools respect those values. It’s all connected—families, faith, and the future of America.

Rev. Moon:
True leadership begins in the family. Parents must teach their children to live with love, integrity, and a commitment to serving others. This is the foundation of a God-centered society. If families fail to fulfill this role, the nation cannot thrive. America must return to these roots to fulfill its divine mission.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you. Let’s shift to another important area: how can communities contribute to preserving this legacy?

Newt Gingrich:
Communities are where faith comes alive. Churches, synagogues, mosques, and other faith-based organizations are essential for building strong, united communities. They provide moral guidance, social support, and a sense of purpose. Communities must work together to address challenges like poverty, division, and moral decay, showing that faith can solve real-world problems.

Donald Trump:
Absolutely. During my presidency, I saw the incredible work faith-based organizations do in communities. They step up where government can’t. From disaster relief to helping the homeless, these groups show the power of faith in action. We need to support them, not hinder them.

Franklin Graham:
Donald, I’ve seen the same thing in my work with Samaritan’s Purse. Faith-based organizations are often the first to respond to crises, both here and around the world. They embody the values of compassion and service that are at the heart of America’s faith-based legacy.

Rev. Moon:
Communities must also work toward unity. Faith teaches us that we are one family under God. Division weakens the nation, but unity strengthens it. Communities must transcend barriers of race, religion, and politics to build a culture of love and cooperation. This is the true expression of faith.

Nick Sasaki:
Rev. Moon, your call for unity is inspiring. To close, I’d like to ask each of you: what is one actionable step we can take today to preserve America’s faith-based legacy?

Newt Gingrich:
We must recommit to teaching the history and values of faith in schools and public life. Education is key to preserving our legacy.

Donald Trump:
Support and protect faith-based organizations. They are doing incredible work to strengthen families and communities.

Franklin Graham:
Live out your faith through service. Show the world that faith isn’t just words—it’s action.

Rev. Moon:
Return to God in your hearts, your families, and your communities. When faith is lived with love and humility, it transforms the world.

Nick Sasaki:

Thank you all for sharing your profound insights today. As I reflect on this discussion, one thing stands out: faith is more than a private belief—it is a living force that has shaped America’s past and must guide its future. From families to communities, from leaders to ordinary citizens, preserving America’s faith-based legacy requires commitment, unity, and action.

Faith reminds us of our shared humanity, inspires us to strive for justice, and gives us the courage to overcome challenges. It is the thread that weaves together the values of love, service, and integrity that define this nation.

Let us take these lessons and apply them in our daily lives, supporting one another, teaching the next generation, and standing firm in the face of challenges. Preserving this legacy isn’t just about honoring the past—it’s about securing the future. Together, we can ensure that America remains a beacon of faith, hope, and freedom for generations to come. Thank you.

Short Bios:

Newt Gingrich
A historian, author, and former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich is a prominent political figure and thought leader. He authored Rediscovering God in America, which explores the role of faith in America's founding and governance.

Donald Trump
The 45th & 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump is a businessman and political leader known for his advocacy of religious freedom and faith-based initiatives. His policies aimed to protect religious communities and uphold traditional values.

Rev. Sun Myung Moon
A global spiritual leader and founder of the Unification Movement, Rev. Moon emphasized love, faith, and unity as essential for personal and national transformation. His teachings focused on God-centered families and moral responsibility.

David Barton
An evangelical Christian historian, David Barton is known for his research on America’s founding principles and the influence of faith in governance. He is a prominent advocate for restoring biblical values in public life.

Eric Metaxas
A bestselling author and speaker, Eric Metaxas writes about faith, history, and culture. His works, such as Bonhoeffer, emphasize the moral courage inspired by faith in shaping world events.

Dr. Alveda King
A civil rights activist, author, and niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. Alveda King champions faith-based approaches to social justice, family values, and community-building.

Jon Meacham
A Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and biographer, Jon Meacham explores the spiritual lives of American leaders and the role of faith in shaping the nation’s history and moral framework.

Callista Gingrich
Co-author of Rediscovering God in America, Callista Gingrich contributed her photography and insights to highlight the spiritual significance of America’s monuments and landmarks.

Rod Dreher
An author and cultural critic, Rod Dreher is known for his book The Benedict Option, advocating for faith communities to strengthen their practices in an increasingly secular world.

William Lane Craig
A Christian philosopher and theologian, William Lane Craig is an expert in apologetics and the intellectual defense of faith in modern society, addressing challenges from secularism and materialism.

Franklin Graham
A prominent evangelist and president of Samaritan’s Purse, Franklin Graham continues his father Billy Graham’s mission, focusing on faith-driven humanitarian efforts and spiritual renewal.

N.T. Wright
An internationally renowned biblical scholar, N.T. Wright emphasizes the relevance of Christian theology in addressing societal issues and inspiring leaders and individuals alike.

Os Guinness
A social critic and author, Os Guinness writes on the intersection of faith, culture, and democracy, offering insights into preserving religious freedom and moral integrity in modern society.

Priscilla Shirer
A Christian speaker and author, Priscilla Shirer focuses on faith in action, empowering individuals and families to live purpose-driven lives through spiritual principles.

Mike Huckabee
A former governor and pastor, Mike Huckabee blends political experience and religious conviction to advocate for faith-based leadership and governance.

Cornel West
A philosopher and theologian, Cornel West speaks on the role of faith in social justice, addressing issues of race, morality, and cultural unity.

Yuval Levin
A public intellectual and scholar, Yuval Levin explores the role of tradition and faith in shaping communities and ensuring a balanced approach to modern governance.

Sarah Vowell
A cultural historian and author, Sarah Vowell offers unique perspectives on America’s historical landmarks, connecting them to the nation’s spiritual and moral roots.

Ken Burns
A renowned documentary filmmaker, Ken Burns captures the essence of America’s history and heritage, including the influence of faith in its monuments and public life.

Nick Sasaki

A writer, moderator, and thought leader, Nick Sasaki brings his expertise in hosting engaging discussions on faith, culture, and legacy. His deep respect for history and diverse perspectives makes him a bridge between influential thinkers and broader audiences.