Iowa, Milwaukee Bishops Apologize Over Trump Prayer Photo

Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey Grob issued a statement titled A Public Apology on Oct. 25, 2026, after the White House released photos and video of 12 bishops praying with President Donald Trump at an Oct. 22 Oval Office meeting less than two weeks before the Nov. 3 midterms. Des Moines Bishop William Joensen also expressed regret. The September invitation offered discussion of immigration enforcement, religious worker visas, abortion and federal tax credits for private education, and early voting had already begun in Iowa and other states. Grob said the bishops were told the meeting would be private, that staff directed them to stand behind the president and pray while photos were taken, and that the White House posted the material shortly afterward. He said the visit was not an endorsement of the president, his policies, or his party, that he received numerous messages, some distraught, and that prayer had been manipulated. I did not go without reservations. I wish I had heeded them, Grob said. I apologize for any damage my actions have done. Joensen said he wished he had been more shrewd and less simple, like those who exploited our meeting for partisan political purpose, while remaining open to praying for leaders at all levels. Archbishop James R. Golka of Denver led the prayer, according to one report. Bishop Robert Barron serves on Trump's Religious Liberty Commission. CONTESTED: Grob said participants did not consent to publication; the White House press office declined to confirm or deny consent.