The Fellowship (Christian organization)

The Fellowship, also known as the National Prayer Breakfast organization or by its formal name, the International Foundation, is a Christian organization based in Arlington, Virginia. It is best known for organizing the annual National Prayer Breakfast, a high-profile event held in Washington, D.C., that brings together political, religious, and business leaders from the United States and around the world.

The organization was founded in 1935 by Abraham Vereide, a Methodist minister, with the goal of fostering relationships among political and business leaders through prayer and fellowship. Its initial focus was on combating the perceived threat of labor unrest and promoting conservative values. Over time, The Fellowship expanded its activities to include establishing small prayer groups among political and business elites, both domestically and internationally.

The Fellowship operates with a low public profile, and its internal structure and activities are largely opaque. It is primarily funded through private donations. The organization's activities extend beyond the National Prayer Breakfast to include various leadership development programs, international outreach efforts, and the maintenance of properties used for retreats and meetings.

The organization has faced scrutiny and controversy regarding its secretive nature, its political influence, and its conservative theological and social views. Critics have raised concerns about the lack of transparency in its funding and operations, as well as its potential impact on public policy. The Fellowship has also been criticized for its relationships with authoritarian regimes and figures around the world.