A highly controversial ceremony took place at Trump National Doral in Miami, Florida, where MAGA aligned evangelical Christian leaders gathered to bless and dedicate a massive 22 foot tall golden statue of President Donald Trump.
The monument, nicknamed “Don Colossus,” is a bronze sculpture by artist Alan Cottrill finished in gold leaf. It depicts Trump standing with his right fist raised high, a pose referencing the moment after the assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024. The full structure stands on a pedestal, making it a towering presence on the resort grounds surrounded by palm trees.
The statue was funded by cryptocurrency entrepreneurs and Trump supporters. Its completion had been delayed for months pending final payments to the artist. During the ceremony, evangelical pastor Mark Burns, founder of Pastors for Trump, led prayers and delivered remarks over the monument.
Religious leaders present at the event prayed over the statue, which was draped in white and blue fabric before the unveiling. Burns addressed criticism directly, stating the monument was not intended as idolatry but as a symbol of resilience, survival, and what he described as divine protection during Trump’s life. Trump reportedly joined the ceremony by phone and spoke with attendees.
The event drew widespread attention and debate. Supporters described it as a tribute to leadership, perseverance, resilience, and strength. Others, including some Christian groups, raised concerns about the religious symbolism and questioned the blending of political figures with ceremonial religious elements.
Images and videos from the ceremony showing religious figures praying over the golden statue prompted broader discussion about the relationship between politics, faith, and modern American culture, and how public symbols are interpreted differently across communities.
What’s your opinion on the meaning of this ceremony?
Here is the video of Donald Trump speaking by phone during the ceremony:
