Erika Kirk to Read Gospel Account at ‘America Reads the Bible’ Friday

Turning Point USA CEO joins Dallas Jenkins, Franklin Graham, Mike Pompeo and others in national Scripture reading event

WASHINGTON, DC (April 23, 2026) — Erika Kirk, who stepped into leadership of Turning Point USA following the tragic loss of her husband, Charlie Kirk, will join America Reads the Bible Friday evening as the national event enters its sixth day.



Live streamed on Great American Pure Flix and held at the Museum of the Bible in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the weeklong, cover-to-cover Bible reading, featuring nearly 500 leaders, will transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament on Friday, April 24.



In a pre-recorded segment, Kirk, wearing a white blazer and a green “Freedom” cap, will read the account of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, including the discovery of the empty tomb and His post-resurrection appearances.

She will be joined by a notable lineup of leaders and cultural voices, including Dallas Jenkins, Franklin Graham, Mike Pompeo, Rebekah Allick, Julia Reilly, Laura Osnes, and Brett Varvel.

Since launching April 19, millions have tuned in via Pure Flix or attended in person. Earlier this week, a recorded reading by Donald Trump from 2 Chronicles 7:11–22 marked a historic moment—the first time since Ronald Reagan that a sitting president has publicly read the passage.

America Reads the Bible was inspired in 2024 when Bunni Pounds, founder of Christians Engaged, envisioned a national call to Scripture reading and discipleship during a visit to the Museum of the Bible.

THURSDAY RECAP

Day five featured Samuel Rodriguez (Jeremiah 33–34); Rafael Cruz (Ezekiel 33–34); Ted Cruz (Ezekiel 35–36); Steve Green (Isaiah 31–32); Jackie Green (Isaiah 31–32); Greg Abbott (Isaiah 43); and James Lankford (Isaiah 38–40).

America Reads the Bible continues through Saturday, April 25, streaming live daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET at PureFlix.com. Daily schedules are available online.

MEDIA RESOURCES

Video assets (available through April 30):

IMPORTANT LINKS

ABOUT AMERICA READS THE BIBLE

America Reads the Bible is organized around the theme One Week. One Nation. One Book. and continues to invite Americans to pause, listen, and reflect as Scripture is lifted aloud in the nation’s capital.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA 

Great American Media is the leader in faith and family entertainment, and one of the fastest-growing entertainment networks on television.Great American Media is home to a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; andGFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great America Media, established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices, is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on the GFam+ app.

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MEDIA CONTACTS:

Debbie Davis — ddavis@crosswindpr.com | media@crosswindpr.com | 214-802-8979

Gregg Wooding — gregg@iampronline.com | 972.567.7660

President Donald J. Trump Reads 2 Chronicles 7 on Pure Flix During America Reads the Bible

Historic Moment as Sitting President Participates in Weeklong Public Reading of Scripture

WASHINGTON — April 21, 2026 — America Reads the Bible marked a historic moment Tuesday evening when President Donald J. Trump read 2 Chronicles 7:11–22 as part of the ongoing weeklong public reading of Scripture at the Museum of the Bible.

The President’s reading, prerecorded in the Oval Office and broadcast during the 6 p.m. ET hour, centered on one of the most widely cited passages in American spiritual life: “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

CLICK TO WATCH FULL VIDEO

The selection reflects a passage long associated with prayer, humility, and national reflection. While presidents throughout American history have quoted Scripture, none have read a lengthy, uninterrupted section of Scripture from the Oval Office, occurring without commentary or being integrated into a speech or public address. Not since President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s has a sitting president quoted the popular passage to the nation. 

“I am so deeply impacted by the power of the leader of the free world reading the Bible in simplicity,” said Bunni Pounds, President and CEO of Christians Engaged and visionary of America Reads the Bible. “This is historic moment of healing for our nation that we will never forget.”

President Trump’s participation came during a week in which nearly 500 leaders from ministry, public service, entertainment, and civic life are reading the Bible aloud from Genesis to Revelation. 

“This was a meaningful and humbling moment,” said Bill Abbott, President and CEO of Great American Media. “To see the President of the United States simply read Scripture, not as a speech, not as commentary, but as the Word itself, underscores what this week is about. America Reads the Bible has resonated far beyond Washington. We estimate that millions of people will have tuned in to the event by week’s end. We are honored that Pure Flix has been able to deliver Scripture into homes and churches, allowing people to pause and listen to the Word.”

We believe millions will have engaged with this reading by the end of the week. It’s a privilege for Pure Flix to open that door, to carry Scripture beyond the Museum and into living rooms, churches, and communities across the country where people can simply pause and listen to the Word.

America Reads the Bible continues daily through Saturday, April 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET at the Museum of the Bible. The readings will move through 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel, the Kings, Chronicles, Psalms, Proverbs, the Prophets, and into the New Testament before concluding in Revelation.

The livestream remains free and accessible nationwide at PureFlix.com, where viewers may join at any time.

One Week. One Nation. One Book.

President Trump Full Reading Clip: https://icnk.io/u/yWX1Ncs605_v/
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Full Reading Schedule: https://www.americareadsthebible.com/schedule
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ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA  

Great American Media is the leader in faith and family entertainment, and one of the fastest-growing entertainment networks on television. Great American Media is home to a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; and GFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great America Media, established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices, is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on the GFam+ app. 

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MEDIA CONTACTS:

Debbie Davis — ddavis@crosswindpr.com | media@crosswindpr.com | 214-802-8979

Gregg Wooding — gregg@iampronline.com | 972.567.7660

Nearly 500 Leaders Unite to Call America Back to Scripture Post-Easter

From Vision to Reality: America Reads the Bible, April 18–25

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 26, 2026) — A moment of inspiration inside the Museum of the Bible in 2024 has grown into a national gathering centered on Scripture during a milestone year in American history.

During that visit, Bunni Pounds, founder and president of Christians Engaged, said she felt led to organize a public call to Bible reading and discipleship—an idea that has become America Reads the Bible.

From April 18–25, 2026, nearly 500 Christian leaders and 120 ministries will gather in Washington, D.C., for a continuous, week-long reading of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation. Hosted at the World Stage Theater inside the Museum of the Bible and livestreamed nationally on Great American Pure Flix, the event will launch two weeks after Easter, to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Organized around the theme “One Week. One Nation. One Book,” the gathering is designed to highlight the enduring role of Scripture in shaping both personal faith and the broader American story.

“The vision was to see leaders from across the country publicly express their dependence on Scripture—and invite others to do the same,” Pounds said.

The week will begin with an opening event on April 18, 7 p.m. EST at National Community Church (Capitol Turnaround), followed by seven full days of readings April 19-25 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST at the Museum of the Bible. Thousands are expected to participate in person and via livestream at PureFlix.com.

Hosted by Christians Engaged in partnership with Great American Pure Flix and a coalition of ministries, America Reads the Bible is positioned as more than a single gathering but as a growing movement focused on discipleship, Scripture engagement and long-term spiritual renewal.

The format of the event draws from a consistent pattern found in Scripture: public reading as a catalyst for revival. Organizers point to moments in the Old Testament — such as the leadership of King Josiah and the readings led by Ezra and Nehemiah — when the declaration of God’s Word preceded repentance and restoration.

Following that model, participants will read Scripture aloud throughout the week, representing a wide range of backgrounds and professions, while emphasizing a shared commitment to the Bible as a foundational text.

Leaders, Ministry Partners Read ‘Full Arc of Scripture’

Among the nearly 500 readers is a wide range of ministry, government, academic, public, and media leaders who will cover the full narrative arc of Scripture throughout the week live or by video. Selected participants and their scripture readings are below. Click here for the full list of readers and their assigned scripture verses: https://www.americareadsthebible.com/agenda

More than 120 ministry partners will unite, including Museum of the Bible, Dallas Theological Seminary, WallBuilders, Bott Radio Network, Time to Revive, Whitaker House Publishing, Andrew Wommack Ministries, National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), National Religious Broadcasters Association (NRB TV), Allen Jackson Ministries, Waterstone Foundation, Colson Center, Family Research Council, Family Policy Alliance Foundation, First Liberty Institute, Her Voice MVMT, Jack Graham Ministries, Pray.com, and more than 80 other ministries across denominational lines. Worship leaders, including Danny Gokey, Phil King, Leeland, Meredith Andrews, and Dustin Smith, will create worship moments during the event. Find a full list here: https://www.americareadsthebible.com/our-partners

At its core, America Reads the Bible is both a commemoration and a call—inviting individuals, churches, and communities to re-engage with Scripture as the nation marks its 250th year.

“When America honored Scripture, we flourished. When we sidelined it, we lost our way,” Pounds said. “No policy can ultimately address the condition of the human heart. This is an invitation to return to something deeper.”

About America Reads the Bible

America Reads the Bible is an initiative of Christians Engaged, founded by Bunni Pounds in 2019, and a ministry of Family Policy Alliance Foundation. The event is produced and distributed by Great American Pure Flix. For additional information, visit www.AmericaReadsTheBible.com.

Full Agenda Now Available at AmericareadstheBible.com

The full Bible reader schedule is now available at https://www.americareadsthebible.com/agenda The public can also register for the livestream, get tickets for the in-person experience and find resources to get their churches involved.

Media Contacts

Media interested in covering America Reads the Bible in person or remotely should visit the press page at https://www.americareadsthebible.com/press.

To coordinate media interviews, please contact:
Gregg Wooding – gregg@iampronline.com  (972) 567-7660

Aubrey Grasz – media@Americareadsthebible.com  (402) 677-4640

Debbie Davis –media@crosswindpr.com (214) 802-8979

Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott Shares Vision to Reclaim the American Family with NRB President Troy Miller at Annual NRB Convention

NASHVILLE, Tenn. | February 27, 2026 – During a powerful and candid fireside conversation at theNational Religious Broadcasters Convention (NRB), Great American Media President & CEO Bill Abbott shared his bold vision for reclaiming faith, family, and country to the center of American entertainment. Speaking with the President and CEO of National Religious Broadcasters, Troy A. Miller, Abbott reflected on the 5^th anniversary of the founding of Great American Media and the company’s unwavering leadership in our homes for uplifting, faith-centered storytelling across both linear television and streaming.

“In an age where entertainment reflects counter-culture beliefs that marginalize faith and family, Great American Media has developed several platforms in the past five years that truly reflects, showcases, and uplifts the American spirit, as reflected in our title, Great American Media,” said Abbott.

To watch the Great American Fireside Chat, click here.

Building a Platform for Cultural Renewal

Founded in June 2021, Great American Media launched its flagship network, Great American Family, during one of the most challenging periods in television history — the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and a dramatic decline in cable viewers as streaming platforms rose to prominence.  Despite early headwinds, the company quickly established itself as a trusted destination for viewers seeking wholesome entertainment on both traditional linear cable television and streaming.

Today, Great American Family reaches approximately 50 million homes, with recent carriage agreements including YouTube TV. The company also distributes on Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service, offering 24/7 content free from what Abbott described as “social engineering” and cultural compromise.

“I believe the vast majority of Americans are tired of the leftist, secular agenda being forced on them by cultural elites.  Great American is, and always will be, unwavering in our beliefs.” Abbott said.

Standing Firm Amid Industry Bias

Abbott addressed the cultural tension facing faith-based entertainment, acknowledging the challenges of operating in an industry that often marginalizes traditional values.

“When you represent faith, family, and country, that’s not the most popular place to be in Hollywood,” Abbott noted. “But the audience demand is undeniable. Viewers want content that strengthens families and reflects their beliefs.”

Miller praised Abbott’s perseverance, calling the company’s growth “a real answer to prayer.”

Expanding Original Programming in 2026

Looking ahead, Great American Media will continue expanding its slate of original films and series in 2026, including:

With new original content premiering weekly and multi-platform promotion across linear and streaming, Great American Media remains uniquely positioned in the marketplace.

“We are the only true 24/7 provider of faith and family content across both linear and streaming,” Abbott said. “There’s never a content issue, only strong, uplifting programming.”

A Mission Beyond Entertainment

The conversation concluded with a call to action for audiences to support content that strengthens families and affirms traditional values.

“Great American Media exists to serve the American family,” Abbott said. “We are committed to storytelling that brings families together around what matters most.”

About NRB:

NRB is a nonpartisan, international association of Christian communicators whose member organizations represent millions of listeners, viewers, and readers. To protect the free speech rights of our members to speak Biblical truth by advocating those rights in governmental, corporate, and media sectors; and to foster excellence, integrity, and accountability in our membership by providing networking, educational, ministry, and relational opportunities.

About Troy A. Miller:

Troy A. Miller, a senior executive with more than 30 years of management and business experience, was elected as President and CEO of NRB in July 2022. He had served as the interim CEO of NRB since March 2019. Under Miller’s leadership, the association has recaptured a strong financial position, grown its membership, and significantly enhanced programming, networking, sponsorship, and exhibition aspects of the annual NRB International Christian Media Convention. Miller is also currently President & CEO of NRBTV, where he has served since June 2005.

Great American Media:

Great American Media is the leader in faith and family entertainment, and one of the fastest-growing entertainment networks on television. Great American Media is home to a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and beloved series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; and GFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great America Media, established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices, is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on the GFam+ app.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Thomas Graham or Debbie Davis

media@crosswindpr.com

512.537.1414

Star-Studded Opening Launches National Bible Reading for America’s 250th Anniversary

Candace Cameron Bure, Patricia Heaton, and Cameron and BJ Arnett join national call to Scripture, April 18

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 11, 2026) — A star-studded gathering of celebrities, ministry leaders, and elected officials will kick off America Reads the Bible, a week-long, nationwide Scripture-reading event commemorating America’s 250th birthday, with a live-streamed opening celebration, April 18 at 7 PM ET.

The event will be held at the National Community Church in Washington, D.C. Great American Pure Flix has the honor of streaming the 90-minute opening celebration, which will feature some of the nation’s most recognizable voices sharing personal stories about the transformative impact of the Bible in their lives.

Featured Participants

Participating in the opening ceremony are Patricia Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond, The Middle), representatives from Congress and the Administration, and national spokespersons Cameron and BJ Arnett (The Forge, CEO’s Camy Arnett Production Studios) and Candace Cameron Bure (Actress and CEO CandyRock Entertainment).

In addition, David Barton (WallBuilders) will highlight America’s rich biblical history, while Pastor Allen Jackson (World Outreach Church), Tony Perkins (Family Research Council), Matt Potter (Pray.com), Dr. Adam Wright (Dallas Baptist University), Doug Deason (Great American Media), Kyle Lance Martin (Time to Revive), and Bunni Pounds (Christians Engaged) share personal testimonies of the power of the Bible and call the nation back to its foundational truth for the wellbeing of America.

Throughout the evening, worship leaders Leeland Mooring (Way Maker) and Phil King (Heal Our Land) are scheduled to lead the nation in worship through music. 

Vision and Purpose

“National leaders from every sphere of influence will testify to their dependence on the Bible as some of the busiest people on the planet and call America back to God’s Word daily,” said Pounds, who is founder and president of Christians Engaged and the visionary behind America Reads the Bible. Pounds said the initiative was inspired by the book of Ezra, where Scripture was read publicly as a catalyst for spiritual renewal.

“We believe the Word of God simply read and listened to can transform hearts, families, communities, and nations,” Pounds added. “We’re inviting Americans to listen or read aloud together in a powerful act of unity and faith for our 250^th Birthday of America.”

Bill Abbott, President and CEO of Great American Media, said, “America Reads the Bible is a reminder that the values and freedoms we cherish didn’t appear out of nowhere, they were shaped, in many ways, by the Word of God.

“We’re grateful to partner on this historic event, and we’re honored to make the livestream available through Great American Pure Flix so families across the country can participate, wherever they are.”

April 19–25, National Scripture Reading and Readers

The national observance will continue April 19–25 with seven consecutive days of public Scripture readings from the World Stage Theatre at the Museum of the Bible, where more than 100 national ministries and 475+ national leaders will read the Bible aloud—from Genesis to Revelation. The public is invited to attend in person at the Museum of the Bible or register to join the livestream at AmericaReadsTheBible.com.

Among the latest confirmed participants include comedian Chonda Pierce, business icon Kathy Ireland, singer Colton Dixon, and John Cooper, Skillet lead singer, along with a whole list of actors and creatives – Nathan Gamble, Kevin Sorbo, Todd Terry, Jen Lilley, Brett Varvel, Julia Reilly, Ashley Wood, Laura Osnes and Butch Hartman. Other Christian voices in the arts involved as readers include filmmakers – Dallas Jenkins, Andy Erwin, Chris Juen and Chad Gundersen and musicians and songwriters – Danny Gokey, Kim Walker-Smith, Meredith Andrews, Leeland Mooring, Phil King, Dustin Smith, Marty Goetz, Daniel Calveti, Matt Gilman, UPPERROOM, Chichi Onyekanne, Hannah Brazney, Jack Mooring, Klaus Kuehn, Clayton Brooks, Bethany Stephens, and Jennie Lee Riddle. More participants are being announced every day here.

MEDIA:
To schedule select audio or video interviews with the visionary behind this movement, Bunni Pounds, Bill Abbott, or our national spokespersons – Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron and BJ Arnett, contact:
 

Gregg Wooding
972-567-7660
gregg@iampronline.com

Debbie Davis

media@crosswindpr.com

512-537-1414

Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott Reflects on the Honor of Broadcasting His Third National Christmas Tree Lighting

Abbott views the ceremony as a moment of unity for the entire country

WASHINGTON, DC – December 2, 2025 – Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott will once again bring the National Christmas Tree Lighting to viewers across the country, marking the third ceremony he has helped share on national television. For Abbott, the tradition has always represented a moment Americans can experience together, surrounded by the beauty of the tree in President’s Park and the 59 state and territory trees that symbolize the season’s spirit of peace, hope, love, and faith.

The 2025 National Christmas Tree Lighting will take place Thursday, Dec. 4 on the Ellipse at The White House and President’s Park. The broadcast premieres Friday, Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on Great American Family and will feature performances from national and local artists. The event will also stream on Great American Pure Flix through January 2026.

Abbott first worked with the National Park Foundation to bring the ceremony to television during his previous network leadership, airing President Obama’s final tree lighting and President Trump’s first. When he launched Great American Media, he hoped the company would one day help carry the tradition forward. When the opportunity became available, the network pursued it immediately.

“I’ve always felt the National Christmas Tree Lighting reflects the best of the season and brings people together,” Abbott said. “Earlier in my career, I was honored to help share President Obama’s last and President Trump’s first ceremonies with the country.”

“From the moment we founded Great American Media, I hoped we’d have the chance to bring this tradition to our viewers. Our mission has always been to celebrate faith, family, and country, and this event captures all three. When the opportunity came, we were thrilled to say yes.”

Great American Family continues to grow quickly, supported by Great American Pure Flix, a subscription video on demand service, and GFam+, a 24/7 commercial free streaming service.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA

Great American Media, the leader in faith and family programming, is home to a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and beloved series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; and GFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great America Media is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on the GFam+ app. Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices. Connect with Great American Media on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube TV, LinkedIn and X. 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Debbie Davis

512.537.1414

media@crosswindpr.com

Great American Media Announces Launch of New Streaming Platform Coming in 2026, Pure Flix Familia

NEW YORK, NY – December 1, 2025 – Great American Media today announced the launch of Pure Flix Familia, a dedicated Spanish-Language platform coming in 2026. The new service will offer values-based entertainment, including original movies, series and curated content entirely in Spanish, and rooted in values that millions of families share. 

With this launch, Great American Media becomes the only entertainment company building a multi-platform ecosystem entirely centered on faith, family, and country. While Pure Flix remains the company’s flagship streaming platform, Pure Flix Familia represents the next step in a long-term strategy to serve audiences who have been overlooked by Hollywood and the mainstream media.

“We are expanding our streaming footprint with purpose,” said Bill Abbott, President & CEO of Great American Media. “Families deserve a place where the content they watch reflects what they believe. Launching a dedicated Spanish-language platform allows us to serve a rapidly growing community that shares our commitment to faith and family and has been overlooked by the marketplace for far too long. Pure Flix Familia is an extension of our mission and a declaration that we are here to serve every family who wants entertainment they can trust.”

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA

Great American Media is the leader in faith and family entertainment, and home of one of the fastest-growing entertainment networks on television. Great American Media has a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and beloved series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; and GFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great America Media is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on GFam+ app. Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices. Connect with Great American Media on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube TV, LinkedIn and X. 

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pam Slay

Network Program Publicity & Talent Relations

818.415.3784

pamslay@gacmedia.com

media@crosswindpr.com

Great American Media Celebrates “Christmas as It’s Meant to Be” as the Exclusive Broadcast Home of the 2025 National Christmas Tree Lighting

Jillian Cardarelli, Matthew West, Gabby Barrett, Alana Springsteen, The Beach Boys, Brett Young, Jon Pardi, and Warren Zeiders to Perform; Event Airs Dec. 5 on Great American Family

NEW YORK – Nov. 21, 2025 — The 2025 National Christmas Tree Lighting brings America together for an evening of faith, hope, and holiday tradition. The live event on Thursday, Dec. 4 is presented by the National Park Service (NPS) and the National Park Foundation (NPF), and will be held on the Ellipse at The White House and President’s Park. Great American Media will exclusively broadcast the ceremony on Great American Family Friday, Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. ET, with streaming available on Great American Pure Flix through Jan. 31, 2026.

Since 1923, the National Christmas Tree Lighting has invited the country to pause, gather, and celebrate what matters most. The National Christmas Tree and surrounding trees representing every U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia will be open to the public Dec. 6, 2025, through Jan. 1, 2026. Hours run 10 a.m.–10 p.m. ET Sunday through Thursday, and until 11 p.m. ET on Fridays and Saturdays. Lights turn on at dusk each evening.

“The National Christmas Tree Lighting is a beautiful reflection of what we believe in—faith, family, and country, the message at the heart of the season,” shared Bill Abbott, President & CEO of Great American Media. “Sharing this night with families across the country is an honor, and we’re proud to carry forward a celebration that truly captures ‘Christmas as it’s meant to be.’”

This year’s celebration shines a special light on Jillian Cardarelli, a star in Great American Media’s Crossroad Springs series. She will take to the stage with a performance rooted in the same authenticity she brings to her role on screen. Joining Cardarelli on stage will be singer and songwriter Matthew West. West will be performing “Come Home for Christmas” and “Come on Christmas.” 

Additional performers include Gabby Barrett, Alana Springsteen, The Beach Boys, Brett Young, Jon Pardi, Warren Zeiders, and the U.S. Navy Band Commodores Jazz Ensemble.

White Rose Way Entertainment produces the special, with Kristi Foley and Leon Knoles serving as executive producers. Knoles also directs, and Tariqh Akoni serves as music director. For more about this year’s performers and the show, visit TheNationalTree.org.

TALENT HIGHLIGHTS

The Beach Boys have birthed a torrent of hit singles and sold albums by the tens of millions. But its greater significance lies in the fact that The Beach Boys’ songs have forever changed the musical landscape, profoundly influencing countless performing artists to follow. Over the past decade, the group has remained in the spotlight, honored in 2023 with the CBS tribute special A Grammy Salute to the Beach Boys. In 2024, The Beach Boys documentary premiered on Disney+, celebrating the band’s revolutionary sound and iconic California aesthetic.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA  

Great American Media is the leader in faith and family entertainment, and one of the fastest-growing entertainment networks on television. Great American Media is home to a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and beloved series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; and GFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great America Media, established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices, is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on the GFam+ app. GAM is also expanding its platforms to include the company’s first theatrical release, Another Sweet Christmas, premiering in theaters nationwide, November 30-December 2. In addition, Great American Media has partnered with the National Park Foundation for the 2025 National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 4, the event will air on Great American Family on December 5 at 8 p.m. ET and stream on Great American Pure Flix through January 31, 2026. Connect with Great American Media on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube TV, LinkedIn and X. 

ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE & NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION
The National Park Foundation works to protect wildlife and park lands, preserve history and culture, educate and engage youth, and connect people everywhere to the wonder of parks. We do it in collaboration with the National Park Service, the park partner community, and with the generous support of donors, without whom our work would not be possible. Learn more at www.nationalparks.org.

ADVISORY TO EDITORS:

MEDIA CONTACTS: 
media@crosswindpr.com

(512) 537-1414

Worship Song by Phil King Named Official Anthem ‘To Heal Divided America’

America Reads the Bible will feature “Heal Our Land” as a solemn prayer of intercession for America… ‘from sea to shining sea.’ 

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO. (October 2, 2025) – America Reads the Bible, a weeklong cover-to-cover Bible reading event for our nation’s 250th birthday featuring celebrities, politicians, ministry leaders and various other Americans reading through the entire Bible, has named “Heal Our Land” by Phil King as its official worship anthem.

The announcement comes during Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement — a sacred time of fasting, prayer, and repentance. At a moment when many are grieving the recent assassination of Christian activist Charlie Kirk and witnessing rising violence in schools and churches across the nation, the song offers a timely call to seek God’s mercy and renewal.

“I believe God has placed a door before us that we can step through right now and see massive generational change take place in our nation,” said King, a modern-day psalmist, fervent about writing and singing soulful songs that point people to Jesus.

King wrote the song “Heal Our Land” as a solemn prayer of intercession for America and worked with director Josh Franer to produce the visually stunning music video.

“The people of God must take responsibility for “our sins are so many and so great,” says King whose song is based on 2 Chronicles 7:14 in the Bible.

“From sea to shining sea, pour out your mercy…heal our land, heal our cities, heal our people,” the lyrics repeat as a humble petition to God.

Christians Engaged Founder and President Bunni Pounds, whose ministry serves as the architect behind America Reads the Bible and producer of the “Heal our Land” music video, expressed heartfelt gratitude to King for lending his timely anthem to this watershed moment.

 “As the Jewish people celebrate Yom Kippur, their holiest day of the year with fasting, prayer, and repentance, I know your touching lyrics will stir the hearts of all Americans to consider the times that we live in, turn back to the Word of God and cry out to God to heal our land,” said Pounds.

Designed as an invitation for people across the nation to reflect on the Bible’s historic role in American life and its ongoing relevance today, America Reads the Bible was inspired by the biblical prophet Ezra, who read Scriptures aloud to the Israelites.

In a similar spirit, more than 420 national leaders from diverse communities and spheres of influence – including actress Candace Cameron Bure who was recently named a national spokesperson – will narrate the Bible live at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC April 19-25, 2025, with an opening celebration on April 18. Simultaneously, Great American Pure Flix will produce, distribute and livestream the event from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. over seven days.

King is the former worship pastor at Christ for the Nations Institute and Gateway Church in Texas. He has sung and played on records and during live events with Michael W. Smith, Danny Gokey, Lauren Daigle, and Francesca Battistelli with whom he performed his pro-life anthem “Not Forgotten” at “Alive From New York,” an event produced in 2019 by Focus on the Family in Times Square. Recently, Phil became worship pastor at Trinity Fellowship Church in Amarillo, Texas, where he and his wife moved to raise their young twins.

For more information about the worship ministry of Phil King and his song, “Heal Our Land,” visit https://www.philkingmusic.com/ and for information and to register for America Reads the Bible, visit AmericaReadsTheBible.com.

MEDIA: To schedule an audio or video interview, contact:

Gregg Wooding, 972-567-7660

gregg@iampronline.com

Candace Cameron Bure Named Among Spokespersons of Historic Bible-Reading Event

‘America Reads the Bible’ will celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday at the Museum of the Bible 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 24, 2025) — National leaders, ministries, and everyday Americans will lend their voices to a historic, weeklong Bible-reading event at the Museum of the Bible, to commemorate America’s 250th birthday in 2026.

Actress, producer, New York Times bestselling author, and Great American Media Chief Creative Officer Candace Cameron Bure has been named one of the national spokespersons for America Reads the Bible (ARTB), a landmark event taking place in the nation’s capital from April 18-25, 2026. The entire Great American Media team is engaged in advancing the mission and message of this historic initiative that will feature voices from across the country reading Scripture, and uniting Americans around faith and the enduring power of the Bible.

“Candace has been a trusted voice for faith and family values for decades, and we’re honored to have her serve as a top spokesperson for America Reads the Bible,” said Bill Abbott, President and CEO of Great American Media. “Recent tragedy has reminded us how important it is to come together around faith and prayer. This historic event will allow us to share God’s Word in a way that will uplift and strengthen our country. We are honored to be part of such a meaningful celebration.”

Candace is the CEO of CandyRock Entertainment, where she stars in and produces original, faith-forward entertainment, including Great American Christmas and mystery films. Her Christian faith and commitment to wholesome storytelling have made her a leading voice in family entertainment.

“Candace’s deep commitment to faith and family makes her a powerful advocate for this historic initiative,” said Bunni Pounds, founder of Christians Engaged, the organization spearheading ARTB. The event will be produced by Great American Media and streamed live on Great American Pure Flix.

The event was inspired by the biblical prophet Ezra, who read Scriptures aloud to the Israelites. In a similar spirit, readers from diverse communities will narrate the Bible from Genesis to Revelation in a livestreamed program from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily over seven days.

“America Reads the Bible is an invitation for people across the nation to reflect on the Bible’s historic role in American life and its ongoing relevance to individuals and families today,” said Pounds.

America Reads the Bible’s partners include Museum of the Bible, Great American Pure Flix, Time to Revive, Whitaker House Publishing, Andrew Wommack Ministries, National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), Wallbuilders, National Religious Broadcasters Association (NRB TV), Allen Jackson Ministries, Waterstone Foundation, Promise Keepers, Family Research Council, Family Policy Alliance Foundation, First Liberty Institute (religious liberty partner), Her Voice MVMT (prayer partner), Pray.com (celebration partner), and more than 83 other ministries across denominational lines. Worship leaders, including Phil King, Leeland, Meredith Andrews, and Dustin Smith, will create worship moments during the event.

Attendees may experience the event live at the Museum of the Bible or join via livestream on Great American Pure Flix at PureFlix.com.

Media Contacts:
Gregg Wooding

972-567-7660

gregg@iampronline.com

Debbie Davis

media@crosswindpr.com

C: 214-802-8979