Debate on Religion in U.S. Founding Ahead of 250th Anniversary

A longstanding debate over the role of religion in America's founding has intensified ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4. Historian Gregg Frazer, a professor at The Masters University in Santa Clarita, California, argues that the nation's founders neither established a Christian republic nor embraced pure deism or antireligious skepticism, a nuanced stance that often alienates audiences on both sides.

"Neither side really wants to hear what I say," Frazer said. He describes many founders as "theistic rationalists," who believed in an active God but rejected core Christian doctrines like Jesus's divinity. Key figures such as Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin fit this category, while others like John Jay, Samuel Adams and Patrick Henry were more devout. George Washington participated in his Episcopal church and invoked divine Providence, though he avoided sacraments and was a Freemason.

The discussion has gained momentum through America 250 celebrations, with President Donald Trump promoting the America Prays initiative, set to culminate in a May 17 gathering on the National Mall in Washington. Cabinet members have echoed...