Denver, Colo., Jan 8, 2009 / 16:34 pm
Tributes to Fr. Richard John Neuhaus are pouring in from around the country, mourning the loss of a mentor, advisor, friend and spiritual father.
President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush issued a statement expressing their sadness and their gratitude for his life of service to "the Almighty." President Bush also related that Fr. Neuhaus was "a dear friend, and I have treasured his wise counsel and guidance."
Throughout his life, Fr. Richard John Neuhaus was involved in many intellectual and spiritual pursuits. In 1990, he founded the journal First Things, tackling both secular and sacred issues. His legacy led Austin Ruse, president of the Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute to comment:
"God does not owe us a thing, but I wish he had given us at least ten more years of Neuhaus. Seventy-two is too young for him to have left us. There is no one quite like him. He leaves behind many spiritual sons and daughters, though; George Weigel, Jody Bottum and many others. Even so, he cannot be replaced and he will be sorely missed every single day for years to come."