This is a very personal blog post. So, that is your copy alert…click out now if this isn’t your thing.
Like so many others all over the world, my life was touched in many ways by the Reverend Buckner Fanning, who passed away last night.
Buckner never judged–ever, anyone. Even people turned off by religion and anything spiritual, tuned in to Buckner. This man was a trailblazer in a calling where most stick to the rules and the old guard. Buckner was led by his heart. I’m not an official historian in any way, but a few of his more memorable milestones in my memory stand out. And before I write another line, Martha–my thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family.
Buckner was one of the first ever modern day ‘TV pastors’ – his clever, catchy :30 television spots drew fans across every denomination and demographic. The inspirational messages were mainstream, approachable and respected by the masses.
This big-hearted man led the charge at Trinity Baptist Church to offer help and counseling to women alcoholics back when the topic was too taboo for most to even discuss. His efforts led to the formation of Alpha House, which this year is celebrating 50 years and continues to change the lives of women dependent on alcohol and/or drugs. I’ve interviewed and been inspired by many of them over the years.
Buckner fostered an incredible relationship with the Jewish community, reaching across the lines of religion and fostering an environment of friendship and love. The photo above is from one of the many trips to Israel that he was also known for. It’s a trip I’ll never forget. On one of the outings, our group was high above the Sea of Galilee and Buckner was ‘preaching’ –too formal a word for this man’s style of communicating. We were all sitting under a causal, open air thatched roof and the dramatic, scenic drop-off to the sea was just behind Buckner. While he spoke, I saw an incredible illumination of gold light all around him shooting into the heavens. Say what you will, but I know what I saw. I’ll never forget it.
Buckner and I also had a working relationship. WOAI, the former KMOL, was where his ‘TV career’ began. I had the pleasure of interviewing him on a variety of topics over the years, but one night’s newscast stands out in my mind. One evening between shows about 8pm, a viewer called me in a panic. She and her fiancé and all their family and friends were stood up by their pastor who was supposed to perform their marriage ceremony. I’m sure there were other extenuating circumstances–I don’t recall if her fiancé was home on leave or what the urgency was…I’ve forgotten, but that night I called Buckner at home and there was no hesitation in his voice. He wanted to help. By 10p that couple was married, Buckner traveled to them to perform the ceremony and we carried the happy couple’s celebration live. Sure, it made for good TV, but it’s one night that couple will never forget.
I’ve fought back tears all day since hearing of his passing, but at the same time, I admit, I feel joy. I can’t help but think he’s truly home where he belongs. What a gift his time on this earth was to all of us. Thank you, Buckner.
Your post about Buckner was so fitting. I live in Arkansas and many years ago he came to our church (92, I think) and he gave one of the most memorable sermons in my mind. He talked about some woman from Alpha House coming to him desperate about ending her life. He gave the story of her life and thank God it had a happy ending. He was so dynamic. I sent the cassette tape copies to Steve from the sermons he gave during the revival. I was hoping he would post to the sermon website but I can’t find that it was. Thanks for the tribute.
Buckner was an amazing man! I attended his funeral and it was beautiful–Buckner gave the sermon via the TV screens. Always the innovator and master communicator:)