The Pennsylvania Ministerium was formed by a coalition of Lutheran pastors who were seeking to unify the growing number of Lutheran congregations in Pennsylvania and surrounding areas. Before its establishment, many Lutheran congregations operated independently, leading to a fragmented religious experience for members. The founding meeting took place in Philadelphia, where influential clergy and leaders gathered to discuss the direction and administration of their faith.

During the initial gathering, the pastors recognized the urgent need for a cooperative structure that would allow them to pool resources, share best practices, and develop pastoral training and support systems. Their discussions centered on enhancing the spiritual life of their congregations and establishing a framework for governance which would accommodate the unique American context. The convening was not just an organizational step; it also represented a cultural adaptation of Lutheranism far from its European roots.

The Pennsylvania Ministerium adopted articles of faith and governance that reflect both their Lutheran heritage and the new realities of life in the American colonies. The founding of this ministerium would lay the groundwork for the Lutheran Church in North America, influencing religious practices, community engagement, and interfaith relationships in subsequent years. It also served as a template for later Lutheran bodies across the continent, establishing Lutheranism as a significant religious presence in America.