By Hunter Hines
March 24, 2025
revmarkcreech.org
RALEIGH, NC—The North Carolina House of Representatives has approved HB 16, a bill requiring the display of the national motto, “In God We Trust,” in both the House and Senate chambers. The legislation, which has cleared the Judiciary, State and Local Government, and Rules committees, now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Supporters of HB 16 argue that displaying the national motto serves as a powerful affirmation of the nation’s moral and spiritual foundations. The legislation mandates that “In God We Trust” be prominently placed in both legislative chambers, reinforcing the belief that the nation’s rights and freedoms stem from a higher moral authority rather than government decree.
The bill passed overwhelmingly by a vote of 100–17, a decisive victory that reflects its strong support in the House. However, some expressed disappointment that 17 members opposed the measure, seeing it as evidence of the growing misinterpretation of the separation of church and state.
Rev. Mark Creech, head of government relations for Return America, expressed strong support for the measure, emphasizing the historical and philosophical significance of the national motto.
“The objections to this bill, often rooted in a misinterpretation of the separation of church and state, reflect a misunderstanding of our Founding Fathers’ intent,” said Rev. Creech. “The First Amendment was designed to prevent the establishment of a state-sponsored church, not to erase faith from public life.”
He further stated, “The display of ‘In God We Trust’ is not an endorsement of any religion but a historical affirmation that our rights come not from government but from a higher authority. This display serves as a reminder that our liberties are unalienable and not subject to the whims of political power.”
Advocates of the bill believe its passage reaffirms the importance of moral principles in governance. “When we display ‘In God We Trust’ in our legislature, we acknowledge that the values upon which our nation was founded remain relevant today,” Rev. Creech added. “We are reaffirming that lawmakers must govern with integrity, humility, and an awareness of the enduring truths that support a just society.”
Quoting the late President John F. Kennedy, Rev. Creech reinforced the bill’s message: “The rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God.”
With HB 16 now heading to the North Carolina Senate, supporters remain optimistic that it will continue to gain traction as a significant step in honoring the nation’s moral and spiritual heritage.