RICHARD JOHN NEUHAUS (1936-2009): A SERVANT OF THE GOSPEL OF LIFE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: JERRY HORN

January 12, 2009

On January 8, 2009, Father Richard John Neuhaus, 72, died in New York City. That same day, upon learning of Fr. Neuhaus' death, the National Pro-Life Religious Council, which was meeting in Washington, DC, gave thanks to God for Fr. Neuhaus' life and ministry.

Fr. Neuhaus, a long-time Lutheran pastor who became a Roman Catholic priest, was faithful in serving Jesus Christ, His Church, and the world throughout his ministry. Because of his ecumenical example and exploration, many Protestants (evangelical and old line) and Roman Catholics recognized their unity in Jesus Christ and committed themselves to attempt to defend "the least of these" (Matthew 25). Because of his engagement in church-and-society matters, many Christians, Jews, and others were emboldened to make moral and religious claims in public life.

A tireless writer, Fr. Neuhaus was the editor-in-chief of First Things. His articles and books, sermons and speeches, were, to the National Pro-Life Religious Council, a source of constant inspiration and instruction.
On this mournful day, NPRC recognizes, remembers, and celebrates Richard John Neuhaus as a great man, with extraordinary brilliance and exemplary faithfulness, who served the Gospel of Life.