Arlington Bishop on the Death of Senator Colgan

The Most Rev. Michael F. Burbidge issued the following statement on the death of Senator Charles J. Colgan: 

"The death of Senator Charles J. Colgan can and should prompt a moment of reflection on and gratitude for the long life of a man who demonstrated both the courage of his convictions and a resilient commitment to public service.  While I did not have the privilege of working with him, I have quickly discovered in the reputation of Senator Colgan the outlines of a gracious man who possessed a deep understanding of human dignity and its foundational significance to public service.  His faith, convictions, and service will undoubtedly leave a mark for decades to come.  May the way in which he brought faith to the public square inspire others to step forward in faithful service at all levels of government."       

Jeff Caruso, Executive Director of the Virginia Catholic Conference, the public policy advocacy organization which represents Virginia's two Catholic Bishops and their dioceses in matters before the Virginia General Assembly, the U.S. Congress, and the state and federal administrations and their agencies, said, "Senator Colgan's support for the mission of the Virginia Catholic Conference and the full spectrum of issues for which we advocate was exemplary, with a consistency that stood alone.  He did not like to draw attention to himself and was not prone to making long floor speeches.  He always let his example and his actions speak for themselves.  The word humility comes readily to mind when thinking of him."