Christian Doctrine Debate Scheduled at University of Idaho

Controversial pastor Doug Wilson to face off against Catholic scholar Joe Heschmeyer on the issue of Sola Scriptura

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Christ Church leader and Christian nationalist pastor Doug Wilson is set to debate well-known Catholic scholar Joe Heschmeyer on the central doctrine that separates Protestantism and Catholicism - the belief in Sola Scriptura, or the Bible as the sole, infallible authority on the Christian faith. The debate, titled the "Great Debate", will be hosted by the Vandal Catholic Club at the University of Idaho's ICCU Arena in Moscow on March 26 and is expected to draw up to 2,000 attendees.

Why it matters

The debate over Sola Scriptura goes to the heart of the differences between Protestant and Catholic theology, dating back to the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. As one of the most prominent and controversial Christian nationalist pastors, Doug Wilson's participation is likely to draw significant attention and interest, especially given the politically-charged nature of some of his past statements.

The details

The debate will focus on the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, which holds that the Bible alone is the sole, infallible authority on Christian faith and can be interpreted by individuals. Catholics believe in the Bible but also hold that the church is needed to properly interpret it and its teachings. This is a key distinction that has divided Protestants and Catholics since the Reformation.

  • The Great Debate is scheduled for March 26, 2026 at the ICCU Arena in Moscow, Idaho.
  • The event is an annual occurrence hosted by the Vandal Catholic Club at the University of Idaho.

The players

Doug Wilson

A controversial Christian nationalist pastor and leader of Christ Church.

Joe Heschmeyer

A well-known Catholic scholar who will be debating Doug Wilson on the doctrine of Sola Scriptura.

Eric Meyer

An organizer of the event and a deacon at St. Augustine's Catholic Center on the University of Idaho campus.

Vandal Catholic Club

The student organization hosting the annual Great Debate event at the University of Idaho.

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What they’re saying

“We expect as many as 2,000 people to attend the debate to be held at the Idaho Central Credit Union Arena.”

— Eric Meyer, Deacon at St. Augustine's Catholic Center (lmtribune.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing theological differences between Protestantism and Catholicism, particularly around the issue of scriptural authority. As a prominent Christian nationalist figure, Doug Wilson's participation is likely to draw significant attention and controversy.