George Washington, the first President of the United States, remains one of the most iconic figures in American history. As the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, the presiding officer at the Constitutional Convention, and the nation's first elected leader, Washington’s influence on the foundation of the United States cannot be overstated. Often referred to as the “Father of His Country,” he served two terms as president, setting a precedent for peaceful transitions of power and establishing the standard for future leaders.
But beyond the battlefield and the presidency, George Washington was also a man of quiet but steadfast faith. Though intensely private about his religious beliefs, there is no doubt that faith shaped his character, leadership style, and vision for the country.
Washington’s Faith: A Quiet Foundation
George Washington was a life-long Episcopalian (part of the Anglican tradition) and regularly attended church, though not always weekly. His reverence for Divine Providence is evident throughout his writings and public addresses. While he avoided theological debates or denominational arguments, Washington consistently expressed belief in a moral and guiding Creator, often referring to God as “Providence,” “the Almighty,” or “the Supreme Being.”
“It is impossible to rightly govern a nation without God and the Bible.”
— Attributed to Washington (though the exact source is debated)
Faith in Practice: His Writings and Prayers
Washington’s commitment to religious principles is best seen through his personal writings and public prayers. In his correspondence, he frequently called upon God’s guidance and protection, both for himself and for the nation. One of the most telling artifacts of his personal faith is his book of prayers, now known as Washington’s Prayer Journal. These prayers reveal a man who was humble before God, earnest in his convictions, and aware of his personal shortcomings.
In his First Inaugural Address (1789), Washington acknowledged the divine role in the founding of the nation, stating:
“No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States.”
A Champion of Religious Liberty
One of the most defining aspects of Washington’s faith was his commitment to religious tolerance. At a time when many nations still tied religious conformity to national identity, Washington helped ensure that the new American republic would offer freedom of religion to all.
In a now-famous letter to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island (1790), he assured Jewish Americans of their equal place in the new nation:
“...the Government of the United States gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance... May the children of the Stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other Inhabitants...”
This wasn’t just a political gesture—it reflected a deep personal belief that liberty of conscience was essential to human dignity and national unity.
Final Thoughts
George Washington’s faith may not have been loudly proclaimed, but it was quietly lived out in his leadership, personal conduct, and devotion to duty. He believed in a higher power that guided both individuals and nations. His trust in Divine Providence and his commitment to religious liberty for all helped shape not just the presidency—but the very spirit of American democracy.
In remembering George Washington, we honor not only the general and the statesman, but also the man of principled faith, whose moral compass helped steer a young nation toward freedom, justice, and unity.