American Minute - Oct. 7 - Henry Melchior Muhlenberg

American Minute
with
Bill Federer

Henry Melchior Muhlenberg died OCTOBER 7, 1787.

One of the founders of the Lutheran Church in America, his son John Peter was a pastor promoted to Major-General in the Continental Army, then elected to Congress.

Another son, Frederick, was a pastor who became the first Speaker of the House.

Both sons served in the first U.S. Congress and passed the First Amendment.

Henry Muhlenberg pastored German congregations near Valley Forge during the Revolution.

In The Notebook of a Colonial Clergyman, Henry Muhlenberg wrote:

"I heard a fine example today, namely that His Excellency General Washington rode around among his army yesterday and admonished each to fear God, to put away wickedness...and to practice Christian virtues."

Rev. Muhlenberg continued:

"From all appearances General Washington does not belong to the so-called world of society, for he respects God's Word, believes in the atonement through Christ, and bears himself in humility and gentleness.

Therefore, the Lord God has also singularly, yea, marvelously preserved him from harm in the midst of countless perils, ambuscades, fatigues, etc., and has hitherto graciously held him in his hand as a chosen vessel."