It was a powerful moment of faith and music on American Idol Monday night — one that moved Carrie Underwood to tears and reminded millions of the importance of staying boldly Christian in the public square.
Contestants Breanna Nix and Rylie O’Neill performed a stirring duet of worship artist Brandon Lake’s hit song “Gratitude” — a performance that didn’t just strike a chord musically, but spiritually as well.
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Carrie Underwood, a longtime advocate for faith in the mainstream, held back tears as she shared how much the moment meant to her. “This is why I’m here,” she said, her voice trembling. “I know what it’s like to stand up and sing about your faith.”
What the young women didn’t know was that Brandon Lake himself was watching. Fellow judge Jelly Roll interrupted the panel to bring Lake in via FaceTime, surprising the contestants. “That was the most gorgeous version of ‘Gratitude’ I’ve ever heard,” he said.
The song, which dominated Christian music charts by spending 28 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs, clearly resonated with the audience and the judges — proving once again that faith-filled content still has a place in American culture.
Though only one spot remained in the Top 24, and it ultimately went to Breanna, the moment stood as a testament to how powerful and uplifting Christian music can be in the most secular of settings.
Breanna — a 25-year-old stay-at-home mom — collapsed to the floor in tears as Underwood, visibly emotional herself, gave her the life-changing news.
The moment comes just as the Pew Research Center reveals that 62% of American adults still identify as Christian— a strong reminder that, despite the cultural noise, faith remains a cornerstone for millions across the nation.
With more worship and gospel songs reportedly on the way this season, American Idol may continue to be an unexpected stage for faith, grace, and unapologetic expressions of Christian belief.
This article originally appeared on American Faith, and is reposted with permission.
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