Pete Hegseth creates Pentagon Office of Religious Affairs as part of faith-related reforms
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has established an Office of Religious Affairs at the Pentagon to provide religious support to service members. Critics argue the move blurs the line between church and state, while supporters view it as a necessary spiritual reform.
Why it matters
The initiative sparks debate over the role of religion in military policy and the separation of church and state in US government institutions.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is launching an Office of Religious Affairs, the latest of his faith-related reforms at the Pentagon.
He announced in a speech on Wednesday (September 30, 2026) that the Office will help offer “first-class religious support” and will report directly to him.
“Our Department is, you might say, putting on the full armour of God, because while we wage physical war, we all know the real battle is spiritual,” he said.
Mr. Hegseth has infused his evangelical Christianity into his leadership of the Pentagon, hosting Christian worship services for employees and often speaking of the United States as a Christian nation.
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