Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Rev. Theodore Hesburgh

"Father Theodore Martin Hesburgh dedicated his life to justice and peace.  Each and every day, President Hesburgh fulfilled the calling of St. Francis to ‘preach the gospel, and sometimes use words' by living his faith through his incredible service.  As a dedicated member of the clergy, outstanding educator, caring humanitarian and civil rights champion, he leaves behind a towering legacy of leadership – inspiring all of us to keep fighting for a world that honors the spark of divinity that rests in everyone.

"Father Hesburgh never abandoned the spirit of volunteerism that led him to serve as a Navy Chaplain during the Second World War – and that earned him the position of Honorary Navy Chaplain towards the end of his life.  World War II forced Father Hesburgh to abandon his studies in Italy, but he never abandoned his call to minister to people suffering from war and injustice.  He marched arm in arm with Rev. Martin L. King, Jr. in support of the landmark 1964 Civil Rights Act.  He led the Civil Rights Commission and advocated for the Affordable Care Act to improve the lives of America's families.  His legendary tenure at the University of Notre Dame, from his start as a chaplain for married veterans to his 35 years as University President, was an extension of the ministry he cherished: empowering generations of young men and women to create purposeful lives.

"On the streets, in classrooms, and in boardrooms, Father Ted was courageous enough to speak out against injustice, compassionate enough to bring healing to the downtrodden, and creative enough to propose ideas that improved the lives of all people.  May it be a comfort to all who loved Rev. Hesburgh, that so many share in their grief during this sad time."