The notebook of a colonial clergyman: Condensed from The journals of Henry Melchior Muhlenberg

by Henry Melchior Muhlenberg

EnglishOriginal German

249 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

Reviews

[Sandy Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book. It was fascinating to read the personal diary of a man who did so much for the Lutheran movement in the United States not only because of how much but also the circumstances of the 1700s. Riding by horse, walking, going by boat in the mud, storms, blizzards; tending to the needs of parishioners, the community, everyone. Accepting the Indians into the community, fighting the marauding Indians in the streets of Philadelphia and the suburbs. A whole new look at our country before 1776 when a man needed to have multiple skills in order to survive and even more in order to help others. Reading a day by day detailed diary, including conversations and boring details, took a while but for those interested in history and/or religion (specifically Lutheran but encompassing others), this is a great book. READ THE REVIEW!

[Mary Gross]

A fascinating glimpse into the mind and thoughts of a Lutheran clergyman from 1742 to 1787. To give you a reference point George Washington was born in 1732. Henry Muhlenburg's attitudes certainly lack grace although he sticks closely to what he believes is morally right. I often find myself thinking " what a jerk or that's not what Jesus modeled" but this is still worth a read. One should consider the historical context of the times. Although we still have much work to do, Americans should be proud of how far we have come in terms of equality and social justice. More later....

[Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very fascinating life and work. Muhlenburg seemed to be heavily influenced by Pietism and did not always follow the doctrine of fellowship. However he still retained orthodox Lutheran teachings and practices in many areas of his ministry and took a stand against the heresies of Deism, Unitarianism, and rationalism as well as the errors of the Baptists, Quakers, and other sects. His constant referral to Bible passages was refreshing. Someone I can't wait to meet.