The role of the Pastor has served many during the formulation and sustainment of this country. The founding fathers had designed the Constitution to reflect Christian principles and regarded religious leaders in the country of the highest values. This was evident in the implementation of religious leaders throughout the military during the American Revolution. In fact, every unit was assigned a Pastor. The role of the Pastor was to boost morale, look out for the welfare of the troops, hold the troops to Christian standards and organize services and issue sermons. The Military Chaplain without doubt played a significant role Americas victory during the American Revolution.
It was not uncommon for Pastors to take up arms in the fight for liberty. One of the most significant was Peter Muhlenberg of Virginia. “The Fighting Parson” would be the eventual title of the Virginian Pastor. Muhlenberg famously announced his intentions during a sermon, in which the exact accounts have varied, however the overall theme was consistent. In his son Henry’s biography of Muhlenberg he states, “To everything there is a season… a time of war, and a time of peace… now is a time of war,”[1] at which point Muhlenberg removed his pastor robe to display himself in his continental army uniform. It had been recorded that over three hundred men had signed up to follow Muhlenberg in joining the fight for liberty.[2]
Muhlenberg’s leadership was valued throughout his time in the military. He held correspondence with George Washington throughout the war and strategized closely with him. Washington spoke fondly and admiringly of Muhlenberg throughout the war. Muhlenberg was entrusted with eventually leading his own units and was present and prominent in the Siege of Yorktown.[3] Muhlenberg’s religious and military leadership eventually led to his further contribution to the country in congress, and eventually was the Vice President to Benjamin Franklin.
In a country that was founded on Christian Principles, it is no surprise to see how valued the Chaplain was in the American Revolution. The Chaplain continues to play a prominent role in the Military to this day. General Peter Muhlenberg exemplified the spirit of the military by choosing to lead from the front. His leadership was valued and recognized by prominent figures throughout the formation of the United States of America. Muhlenberg maintained his faith and implemented Christian principles to his congregation and soldiers alike.
[1] Henry A. Muhlenberg. The Life of Major-General Peter Muhlenberg (Philadelphia, 1849)
[2] Abner Dumont Jones. The illustrated American biography : containing correct portraits and brief notices of the principal actors in American history. (New York, 1854) pg. 396
[3] John Frederick Schroeder and Alonzo Chappel. Life and times of Washington : containing a particular account of national principles and events, and the illustrious men of the Revolution (New York, 1857)
Chappel, John Frederick Schroeder and Alonzo. Life and times of Washington : containing a particular account of national principles and events, and the illustrious men of the Revolution. New York: Johnson, Fry, 1857.
Jones, Abner Dumont. The illustrated American biography : containing correct portraits and brief notices of the principal actors in American history. New York: J. Milton Emerson & Co., 1854.
Muhlenberg, Henry Augustus. The life of Major-General Peter Muhlenberg of the Revolutionary Army. Philadelphia: Carey and Hart, 1849.