Bishop John Bryson Chane of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington released this statement today on the death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy:
On behalf of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington and those of us whose daily lives revolve around the close of Washington National Cathedral, I wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the Kennedy family on the death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Ted’s legacy as a consummate legislator, a champion for the poor and an advocate for those who found themselves on the margins of society will forever be missed and yet never forgotten. He used his position of power and privilege to empower others whose circumstances rendered them bereft of both power and privilege. He was a compassionate voice for the voiceless and a shining example of what it means to serve the common good of the commonwealth.
He will be sorely missed by those of us who believe that the greatness of this nation is defined by its goodness and its ability to serve the needs of all its citizens.
As a native son of Massachusetts, I feel a particular loss at his passing and realize how fortunate we in the Bay State have been to be represented by him in the Senate.
May God grant him a peaceful rest in that place where there is no sorrow or pain but only life everlasting.
The Rt. Rev. John Bryson Chane, D.D.
Bishop of Washington.