by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief
(Worthy News) – U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Jewish Americans — and citizens of all backgrounds — to observe a national Shabbat from sundown on May 15 through nightfall on May 16 as part of Jewish American Heritage Month and the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
In an official proclamation, Trump encouraged Americans to embrace the biblical tradition of rest, reflection, gratitude, and faith during what he described as a historic national moment.
“In special honor of 250 glorious years of American independence and on the weekend of Rededicate 250 — a national jubilee of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving — Jewish Americans are encouraged to observe a national Sabbath,” Trump wrote.
“From sundown on May 15 to nightfall on May 16, friends, families, and communities of all backgrounds may come together in gratitude for our great nation,” the president added. “This day will recognize the sacred Jewish tradition of setting aside time for rest, reflection and gratitude to the Almighty.”
Trump also urged Americans throughout the nation to celebrate “faith and freedom” during the anniversary year, placing special emphasis on Shabbat as a symbol of spiritual renewal and national thanksgiving.
He added that the national observance could provide a healthy break from the hostility often amplified through social media.
The proclamation comes as America prepares to commemorate 250 years since its founding, with many faith leaders viewing the initiative as a reminder of the nation’s long-standing commitment to religious liberty and biblical values.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
Latest Stories from Worthy News
Lenny Kuhr, the Dutch Jewish singer-songwriter who was among the winners of the world’s largest televised song contest and influenced generations with heartfelt chansons, is leaving her native Netherlands, citing rising antisemitism.
China has freed the last two church leaders detained for nearly four years following a controversial police raid on a Christian gathering, amid ongoing concerns over religious persecution.
U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Jewish Americans — and citizens of all backgrounds — to observe a national Shabbat from sundown on May 15 through nightfall on May 16 as part of Jewish American Heritage Month and the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Israel carried out a major airstrike in Beirut on Wednesday night, killing a senior commander of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force in the first strike on the Lebanese capital since before the ceasefire took effect last month.
New high-resolution satellite images from Airbus taken on April 8, 2026, reveal that Iran has significantly expanded defensive measures around the underground tunnel complex at the Esfahan Nuclear Complex, a site believed to house much of the regime’s highly enriched uranium stockpile.