In the political documents, correspondence, and other writings of Washington, few references to the prevailing religion of his day are found. In no instance has he expressed a disbelief in the Christian religion, neither can there be found in all his writings a single sentence that can with propriety be construed into an acknowledgment of its claims. Once or twice he refers to it in complimentary terms, but in these compliments there is nothing inconsistent with the conduct of a conscientious Deist. Religions, like their adherents, possess both good and bad qualities, and Christianity is no exception. While there is much in it deserving the strongest condemnation, there is also much that commands the respect and even challenges the admiration of Infidels. Occupying the position that Washington did, enjoying as he did the confidence and support of Christians, it was not unnatural that he should indulge in a few friendly allusions to their religious faith.
In his "Farewell Address," the last and best political paper he gave to the Christian religion is not once named. In this work he manifests the fondest solicitude for the future of his country. His sentences are crowded with words of warning and fatherly advice. But he does not seem to be impressed with the idea that the safety of the government or the happiness of the people depends upon Christianity. He recommends a cultivation of the religious sentiment, but evinces no partiality for the popular faith.
It would appear that we'll never know if Washington was a Christian or not. But, do you not find it somewhat strange that, if he was a Christian, he never declared so (even on his deathbed)? From my experience, people of faith tend not to be so secretive about their beliefs...<
And no, I don't find it strange. Some people are more introspective about their faith than others.
What I see is some people trying to make something out of nothing.
Think this expectation may be misled. I don't have the final signatories list in front of me right now, so would have to check to be sure; but I'd bet the farm that the two deists are Jefferson and Franklin.
Washington was a Christian, body and soul. IMHO. best, bb.