News broadcasts typically maintain a secular tone to appeal to diverse audiences, but Fox News host Pete Hegseth broke from tradition by leading a prayer on air during a recent episode of *Fox & Friends*. The moment, part of a segment sponsored by the Hallow Bible app, has ignited a heated discussion online.

Here’s what happened:

On Sunday, during the *Fox & Friends* broadcast, Hegseth invited his co-hosts, Rachel Campos-Duffy and Will Cain, along with viewers, to join him in prayer. “We have more *Fox & Friends* coming up, but you know what, this is a transition for transitions if you’ve ever had one,” Hegseth said with a chuckle. Campos-Duffy chimed in, “So *Fox & Friends*,” to which Hegseth replied, “This is very *Fox & Friends*, so ready your heart.”

He introduced the prayer, noting it was the fifth Sunday of Lent and part of a series featuring readings from the Hallow app. “We all need it, let’s do it this morning. Close your eyes — if you would, bow your head,” Hegseth said. He then read a prayer from the app:

“Jesus, today we begin the holy period of Passiontide. In these last two 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 praised Christ’s “selfless love you showed on the cross” and concluded by thanking Hallow for their partnership during Lent. Campos-Duffy added, “Amen,” as she and Cain bowed their heads in reverence.

According to *The Huffington Post*, Fox News previously featured a segment with the Hallow app on Ash Wednesday, with actor Mark Wahlberg appearing as a guest for the sponsorship.

This isn’t the first time *Fox & Friends* hosts have openly discussed faith. In a prior episode, host Kayleigh McEnany spoke about Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, saying, “I really believe he thinks God is leading the way — this will all get figured out.” Co-host Ainsley Earhardt added, “To everyone out there, pray for him as our speaker. Our country really needs some guidance from God right now.”

While the U.S. Constitution guarantees religious freedom, Hegseth’s on-air prayer stirred controversy. Some viewers questioned its authenticity, with one commenter on social media stating, “These people don’t praise God the rest of the time. It’s a political stunt to make you believe they do. Fox News spreads falsehoods and conspiracy theories, remember they paid a hefty fine for doing so. Hypocrisy at its best!!” Another viewer remarked, “About as religious as a rock,” while a third wrote, “These people praying is a joke. They sit there every day and lie through their mouths. You never hear the truth about anything. So please give me a break.”

However, the prayer also garnered significant support, with many viewers praising Hegseth’s decision to share a moment of faith on air. The polarized reactions highlight the ongoing tension between public expressions of religion and the expectation of neutrality in media.

What are your thoughts on this moment? Let us know in the comments below!

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