Buenger: Founder of Organized Charity in the Missouri Synod

Was rummaging around in Synod's attic (Concordia Historical Institute) the other day, and came across this old address by Prof. Theo Buenger of Concordia St. Paul, about his Uncle Friedrich Buenger, founder of the institutional work of mercy in the LCMS (especially St. Louis Lutheran Hospital). Buenger's three-fold gift is needed more today than ever.

Pastor H.

Your program committee has asked me to speak to you about the Rev. Johan Friedrich Buenger, the founder of organized charities in our church-body. I am delighted to accept this invitation in order to bring you historical material about the work which was so dear to the heart of my sainted uncle.

There were three outstanding characteristics of his. First, a sacred enthusiasm to teach and a sustained effort to perfect himself in this; second, a far-flung and many-sided missionary endeavor; third, a heart beating warm in commiseration for the sick, destitute, and forsaken, combined with a readiness of self-sacrifice.

Lord grant us more of THAT! MH