[429] He believed in a divine power who watched over battlefields, was involved in the outcome of war, was protecting his life, and was involved in American politics and specifically the creation of the United States.[430][t] Modern historian Ron Chernow has argued that Washington avoided evangelistic Christianity or hellfire-and-brimstone speech along with communion and anything inclined to "flaunt his religiosity". Chernow has said Washington "never used his religion as a device for partisan purposes or in official undertakings".[432] No mention of Jesus Christ appears in his private correspondence, and such references are rare in his public writings.[433] However, Washington frequently quoted from the Bible or paraphrased it, and often referred to the Anglican Book of Common Prayer.[434] There is debate on whether he is best classed as a Christian or a theistic rationalist—or both.[435]
Washington emphasized religious toleration in a nation with numerous denominations and religions. He publicly attended services of different Christian denominations and prohibited anti-Catholic celebrations in the Army.[436] He engaged workers at Mount Vernon without regard for religious belief or affiliation. While president, he acknowledged major religious sects and gave speeches on religious toleration.