Thomas Jefferson historical interpreter Tom Pitz contemplates before meeting Hebron Lutheran pastor The Rev. Dr, James C. “Jim” Kniseley for a debate on religious freedom on May 17 during church services. PJR photo and video by Chuck Jackson.
A living-history appearance by Thomas Jefferson at historic Hebron Lutheran Church in Madison on May 17 quickly turned from polite welcome to sharp debate over Christianity, church power and Virginia’s religious past.
Before a crowded audience Jefferson interpreter Tom Pitz – who lives on Jefferson’s grandson’s estate Edgehill adjacent to Monticello – fielded pointed questions about whether Jefferson was a Christian, why he trimmed the Bible to create what became known as the Jefferson Bible, and how he justified serving in Anglican church leadership while rejecting orthodox doctrine…