Scratching Where It Itches: How CFNA Began

Editor’s note:  As Reverend Al and Carol Buckman prepared for their mission work in Nigeria, West Africa, they met with the President of the American Bible society, Dr. Eugene Nida, who advised them to “scratch where it itches.” Though this piece of advice puzzled the couple at the time, this helpful bit of information guided their missionary service during their years in Nigeria and also found its application when they began working with refugees in the St. Louis area. It is in this context that the ministry work of Christian Friends of New Americans (CFNA) took shape. 

In reading about how CFNA came to be, I (Yuria) hope that readers will be awestruck by the intentionality of God, and how a small piece of advice, an unexpected encounter, and a willing heart ultimately leads to His perfect plan – a plan that continues to reach all nations. 

Rev. Dr. Al & Carol Buckman

In 1976 the Buckmans came back to the States and in 1977 settled in St. Louis, Missouri. Called by the LCMS to serve as the Area Secretary for Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, Dr. Buckman became heavily involved in the work of the Mission Board of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod in that region. 

Carol taught in Lutheran schools before transitioning to real estate. It was in this role that the Buckmans met a group of Nigerian refugees worshipping at Messiah Lutheran church and searching for homes. After visiting with them, however, it was obvious the needs of these individuals ran deeper than simply securing a place to live. Without hesitation, Al asked what they needed most. Their reply – computers – set the stage for refugee ministry work. 

Working with a prison ministry, Pastor Lange secured the necessary computers. This small project, with classes including devotions taught by Carol and her friend, Karen Vaughn, led to countless meetings at Messiah and later at the Seminary with representatives from many Lutheran organizations in St. Louis. 

In the summer of 2002, Pastor Lange and the newly ordained Pastor Tony Boos asked Christian mission organization, POBLO, to become a partner of CFNA. With funding from POBLO, the Missouri District, and Christ Memorial, CFNA officially began in September 2002. 

Dr. Buckman recalls how, in addition to Lutheran congregations such as Messiah Lutheran and Christ Memorial Lutheran Church, other entities, such as the LCMS Missouri District and POBLO, greatly supported CFNA since its beginning. 

In fact, the Peace Center on South Grand Blvd, CFNA’s beloved home that was owned by the District, was transferred to CFNA in 2008. At around the same time, CFNA was legally incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in the state of Missouri. 

A biblical foundation continues to feed and nurture the relationships formed at CFNA. In addition to meeting one’s physical needs, volunteers and staff, including New American Christians, have been consistent in offering spiritual support through devotions and personal discussions that accompany CFNA programs. Through these efforts, hundreds of refugees have heard and learned about Jesus and His great love for them. 

CFNA and its efforts continue today because of God’s generosity received in the form of support from numerous Lutheran congregations, volunteers, staff, board members, and countless others. It is with thankful hearts that God continues to call people from all backgrounds together – not only to “scratch where it itches,” but to share Jesus, the ultimate antidote to our deepest needs. 

By Rev. Dr. Al & Carol Buckman;
With contributions by Yuria Bergt