FAITH OF THE FOUNDERS: Thomas Jefferson on God, the Mind of Man and Religious Freedom

(QUICK READ) — “Almighty God hath created the mind free.  All attempts to influence it by temporal punishments or burdens are a departure from the plan of the Holy Author of our religion … No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious opinions or belief, but all men shall be free to profess and by argument to maintain, their opinions in matters of religion.  I know but one code of morality for men whether acting singly or collectively.” —

Thomas Jefferson, A Bill for Establishing Religious Freedom, 1777 (passed by the Virginia General Assembly in 1786).

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Many of the quotes reprinted in HillFaith’s “The Faith of The Founders” weekly series of posts are compiled from Benjamin F. Morris’ classic work, “The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States.” Morris, an historian and pastor, published the first edition more than a century ago.

Quotations are also compiled from Mark Strand, author of the Daily Inspirations email he shares on request here and that HillFaith highly recommends to all congressional aides, be they working on Capitol Hill or in a state or district office back home.

Mark was for 16 years President of the Congressional Institute, and he is a former fellow of the Harvard Institute of Politics. He was also a 24-year veteran congressional staffer, including four years as Chief of Staff to Sen. James Talent (R-Missouri).

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