In a moment that felt more like a worship service than a television competition, “American Idol” delivered a powerful display of faith, as its second annual “Songs of Faith” special filled the stage with prayer, praise and bold proclamations of Jesus.

Timed just ahead of Easter, the live broadcast featured the Top 14 contestants performing songs rooted in faith, many of whom openly declared their relationship with Christ before a nationwide audience. From the opening note to the final performance, the atmosphere was unmistakably different — one marked by reverence, unity and, as many described, the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan set the tone early, opening the show with “Jesus Is Love” as contestants joined them in a choir-like formation. As the night unfolded, worship continued both onstage and behind the scenes. Viral child preacher Luke Tillman offered a heartfelt prayer, while audience members lifted their hands during performances, transforming the studio into a space of collective praise.

Host Ryan Seacrest summed up the moment after Carrie Underwood’s closing performance of “How Great Thou Art,” saying, “I think I felt the Holy Spirit a few times. When Carrie performed, it really … it vibrated this massive studio. It was incredible.”

Underwood, who has helped raise the visibility of faith-centered moments on the show, praised the boldness of the theme. “I respect ABC and ‘American Idol’ so much for being bold in this theme, because it’s not easy,” she said. “But I love that we were able to … have some moments of just worship in front of the world.”

For many contestants, the night wasn’t just about music — it was deeply personal. Keyla Richardson opened with “Jireh,” sharing how the song was born from intimate moments with God. “There were times in my life where I would sit with God in my room … and tears would just fall,” she said. “God has been everything I need Him to be.” She added, “My faith is the only thing that has kept me this far.”

Kyndal Inskeep reflected on her past struggle with depression after performing “Nothing But the Blood of Jesus.” “I almost lost my fight,” she said. “And He swooped in … and brought me here. Why wouldn’t I want to be a billboard for His kingdom?” She encouraged viewers facing hardship, reminding them, “You are beautifully and wonderfully made.”

Other contestants echoed similar testimonies. Lucas Leon called his performance of “Gratitude” an act of thanksgiving: “I’ve got a roof over my head … breath in my lungs every morning. How could I not be thankful?” Jordan McCullough described the night as “a full-on worship service,” adding, “If I am the church, I can go and bring it to them.”

Faith also emerged as a source of healing and perseverance. Daniel Stallworth shared his hope that his performance would uplift others: “If you’re going through it right now … keep holding on. You’ll get to the other side.” Julian Kalel reflected on how calling out to God in his lowest moments sustained him: “If it weren’t for my faith, I wouldn’t have been able to continue.”

Backstage, contestants prayed together, forming bonds that went beyond competition. “We’ve had them pray over me. We’ve prayed together,” said singer Raye. “This night just brought us all closer.”

Hannah Harper, who has consistently used her platform to point to Jesus, was visibly moved throughout the night. “Getting to be this open about my relationship with the Lord on a platform like this is an incredible honor,” she said. Despite acknowledging the “spiritual warfare” she feels in Hollywood, Harper emphasized that faith has kept her grounded. “You’re never too far gone. He can meet you anywhere.”

By the end of the night, one message rang clear: faith still resonates. Whether through hymns, testimonies or simple prayers, contestants used one of the biggest stages in entertainment to share the Gospel — and millions watching at home were invited into that moment.

As Richie reflected, the impact goes beyond television. “We are in need of prayer. We are in need of power,” he said. “We’re all God’s children … let’s treat each other like our family. God is in control.”