Muhlenberg’s Lutheran Heritage
Since 1848, Muhlenberg has been guided by the Lutheran values of education, social responsibility, and personal vocation.
A Tradition of Thought and Service
Founded in 1848 by Pennsylvania German Lutherans, Muhlenberg College was created to prepare students for seminary and professional life. Over time, it has grown into a nationally -recognized liberal arts college. Through this evolution, the college has remained shaped by the values of Lutheran theology — from the Reformation to the progressive Lutheranism of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), with whom we are affiliated.
Lutheran Values that Endure
Muhlenberg’s heritage is rooted in values that continue to inform our community today:
- Human Flourishing – open-mindedness, critical inquiry, freedom of conscience, and education for all.
- Social Responsibility – respect for human dignity, inclusiveness and belonging, and a commitment to justice.
- Personal Vocation – helping each individual discern their gifts and calling to serve the wider world.
Living These Values Today
These values continue to resonate in our mission: to develop independent critical thinkers, committed to understanding the diversity of the human experience, equipped with ethical and civic values, and prepared for lives of leadership and service.
A Symbol of Our Heritage
The red doors seen across campus are more than architectural detail. They symbolize the College’s Lutheran roots and our ongoing commitment to preparing graduates for lives of meaning, service, and leadership in a pluralistic society.
Our Red Door Roots
Thanks to a grant intended to support the exploration of our heritage, Muhlenberg College presents this collection of essays about how our Lutheran values have inspired our past, present, and future.