Moving from the Old World to the
New, Muhlenberg established the shape of Lutheran parishes for America during a
45-year ministry in Pennsylvania. Born at Einbeck, Germany, in 1711, he came to
the American colonies in 1742. A tireless traveler, Muhlenberg helped to found
many Lutheran congregations and was the guiding force behind the first American
Lutheran synod, the Ministerium of Pennsylvania, founded in 1748. He valued the
role of music in Lutheran worship (often serving as his own organist) and was
also the guiding force in preparing the first American Lutheran liturgy (also
in 1748). Muhlenberg is remembered as a church leader, a journalist, a
liturgist, and—above all—a pastor to the congregation in his charge. He died in
1787, leaving behind a large extended family and a lasting heritage: American
Lutheranism. [Commission
on Worship of the The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod]
Collect of the Day
Lord Jesus Christ, the Good
Shepherd of Your people, we give You thanks for Your servant Henry Melchior
Muhlenberg, who was faithful in the care and nurture of the flock entrusted to
his care. So they may follow his example and the teaching of his holy life,
give strength to pastors today who shepherd Your flock so that, by Your grace,
Your people may grow into the fullness of life intended for them in paradise;
for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and
forever. Amen.
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