Newly released American pastor Andrew Brunson has openly prayed for President Donald Trump during a meeting in the Oval Office Saturday. Brunson was invited to the White House following his return to the United States, having been held for two years by Turkish authorities on farcical charges of terrorism and attempting to overthrow the government.
“I need it probably more than anybody else in this room,” Trump said, as he thanked Brunson for the offer of prayer. “That would be very nice, thank you,” the President added.
"My wife and I pray for you."
Pastor Andrew Brunson, freed from being detained in Turkey after almost two years, meets with Pres. Trump, and prays over him in the Oval Office. https://t.co/Wy0dKRBwht pic.twitter.com/ycNwxbUkYF
— ABC News (@ABC) October 13, 2018
It was a powerful moment as Brunson kneeled next to the President and laid his hand on his shoulder. “Lord God, I ask that you pour out your Holy Spirit on President Trump,” the pastor declared as Trump bowed his head. “Would you give him supernatural wisdom to accomplish all the plans you have for this country and for him.”
Pastor Andrew Brunson prays for President Trump in the Oval Office.
“I ask that you give him strength.. I ask you protect him.. make him a great blessing to this country & fill him with your wisdom and strength.” pic.twitter.com/IqdA3azZyA— Ben Kennedy (@BenKennedyTV) October 13, 2018
Brunson then asked God to give Trump wisdom on “how to lead this country, and to righteousness.” Surrounded by advisors, reporters and photographers, the packed Oval Office fell silent as the faith-filled pastor continued his bold prayer.
WATCH: Pastor Andrew Brunson, freed from being detained in Turkey after almost two years, prays with President Trump pic.twitter.com/ZpFIL1NbkE
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) October 13, 2018
“I ask that you give him perseverance and endurance and courage to stand for truth. I ask that you protect him from slander, from enemies and those who would undermine. I ask that you make him a great blessing to this country,” Brunson said. “Fill him with your wisdom and strength and perseverance.”
The pastor concluded, “We bless him. May he be a great blessing to our country, in Jesus name, Amen.”
Brunson touched down at Andrews Air Force Base just after noon Saturday, before heading straight to the White House.
Pastor Andrew Brunson, released by Turkey, will be with me in the Oval Office at 2:30 P.M. (this afternoon). It will be wonderful to see and meet him. He is a great Christian who has been through such a tough experience. I would like to thank President @RT_Erdogan for his help!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 13, 2018
“We’re very honored to have him back with us,” the President noted. “He suffered greatly.”