I agree that in that clear case, it would make sense to do the same today. As would any other post-1820 President.
In other in between cases, you and I may disagree as to whether an absolutist stance on any funds whatever going to faith-based groups would even still be on the radar screen in the light of the utter horror he would undoubtedly experience at the bloat and intrusiveness of our federal government.
Indeed. But that is certainly another issue.