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The first American pope, Leo XIV, was criticized by Donald Trump over his prayers for peace in Iran (AFP/Getty)
Jeffress is a megachurch pastor from Dallas who endorsed Trump back during his 2016 campaign. He often takes part in Trump’s meetings with faith leaders and has led prayers next to him in the Oval Office.
The pastor also defended Trump’s past criticisms of the pope. “What the president said was absolutely correct,” Jeffress told Religion News Service earlier this April. “Pope Leo apparently doesn’t have a biblical understanding of what government should do to protect its citizens from those who would do us harm both from within and outside our country.”
Trump sells special editions titled “God Bless the USA Bible” aimed at his supporters which feature King James version alongside key U. S. documents like Constitution and Declaration of Independence as well as The Pledge of Allegiance. These books include handwritten lyrics from Lee Greenwood’s song “God Bless the USA.” Last month he joined a Bible-reading marathon where he read from 2 Chronicles 7:11-22 – scripture frequently cited by those asserting America was founded as a Christian nation.
However, many critics say that Trump’s grasp on Christian scripture is quite limited. Back in early 2016 at Liberty University while speaking to students he mistakenly referred to Second Corinthians as “Two Corinthians.” During another event in 2020, he seemed to hold a Bible upside down while posing for photos outside St. John’s Church.
This week alone saw Trump accuse Pope Leo of “endangering Catholics” claiming that Vatican supports Iran gaining nuclear weapons during an interview with Catholic radio show hosts.
Donald Trump appeared holding an upside-down bible during an event outside St. John’s Church in Washington D. C., back in 2020 (AFP via Getty Images)
Pope Leo firmly rejected Trump’s claims about Vatican supposedly backing nuclear arms development stating: “The mission of our Church is about spreading Gospel and preaching peace.” He added: “If anyone wants criticize me for spreading Gospel truthfully then let them do so honestly.. For years now we’ve been against all types of nuclear weaponry without any doubt.”
Apart from his ongoing verbal sparring with The Pope regarding religious issues; Recently however , Trump found himself under scrutiny again due posting AI-generated image depicting himself resembling Jesus Christ healing sick individuals. This drew backlash not just among prominent Christian commentators but some Republican lawmakers leading him delete image shortly after sharing it online!
A separate group led dedication ceremony unveiling gold statue representing president attended through phone call made possible due technology linking him virtually! This statue revealed at prestigious venue known as “Trump National Doral,” located within beautiful Miami Florida landscape settings!!
“Let me be clear: this isn’t about creating golden calf,” Mark Burns member Pastors promoting initiative wrote Facebook post announcement day. “This sculpture celebrates life itself ! It’s symbolizing resilience freedom patriotism strength willpower needed keep striving forward towards brighter future awaiting America!”
When asked opinions regarding above-mentioned artwork Pastor Jeffress opted remain silent declining comment answering queries posed during interview held separately conducted by Religion News ServiceSource link
