First lady Melania Trump took the spotlight Saturday as she led a standing ovation for a rousing rendition of How Great Thou Art by a blind singer who suffers from multiple medical conditions.
The first lady, along with President Donald Trump, the Trump family, and Vice President Mike Pence and his family, attended the traditional National Prayer Service Saturday at the National Cathedral.
Western Journalism reports,
Marlana VanHoose, 20, who is blind and suffers from cerebral palsy, sang the traditional hymn from the steps of the cathedral. VanHoose, who was born with defects but who has achieved fame as a singer, had the Republican National Convention abuzz this past summer with her rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner.
As she was singing Saturday, Melania Trump was noticeably wiping a tear from her eye.
As the hymn ended, Melania Trump rose, with President Trump right behind her, as the congregation gave VanHoose a standing ovation.
On Twitter, Melania Trump’s action was praised and also contrasted with the Women’s March taking place in Washington.
Gracious of Melania Trump to stand after the singing of How Great Thou Art at the Nat’l Prayer ceremony. Honor others. 1st class 1st lady!
— Sally Gee (@saange) January 21, 2017
“National Prayer Service” Melania shed tears when “How Great Thou Art” was sang. Meanwhile Nasty Women march in protest to kill babies.
— 1 Tan Florida Blonde (@ECoastYellaHair) January 21, 2017
WTG.. Melania being so emotional at the inaugural prayer service during hymn. she actually led the standing ovation afterward. #FLOTUStrump
— Gina Romero (@GinaRom0215) January 21, 2017
In addition to hymns, the choir offered patriotic songs including My Country ‘Tis Of Thee and America the Beautiful. The choir of Liberty University sang We’ve Come This Far By Faith.
The service included readings and prayers from Protestant, Jewish, Sikh, Mormon, Buddhist, Roman Catholic, Baha’i, Episcopal, Hindu and Native American leaders.
“Oh Lord God, our heavenly father, whose glory is in all the world. we commend this nation to thy merciful care, that being guarded by thy providence, we may dwell secure in thy peace,” prayed Todd Christopherson, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Mormon church.
“Grant to President Donald John Trump, president of the United States, and to all in your authority thy grace and favored, give them wisdom and strength to know and to do thy will,” he said.
“Imbue with thy heavenly gifts, fill them with the love and truth of righteousness, and make them every mindful of their calling to serve this people, in thy fear through Jesus Christ our lord who lives and reigns with thee, one god, world without end,” Christopherson added.
Continue reading at Western Journalism
