Statement of the Rt. Rev. John Bryson Chane, Bishop of Washington, on the death of President Gerald R. Ford
Early this morning I was awakened with the news that President Gerald R. Ford had died in California after several years of deteriorating health.
The former President, a faithful Episcopalian, was a man known for his great integrity and his firm belief in God. He never sought the Presidency, yet when it was thrust upon him he led wisely, guiding our nation well during a time of high inflation, fuel shortages, and the complex foreign policy challenges presented by the Cold War. A kind man who worked hard at building bridges and shaping consensus, he will be remembered for his dignity, his humility and his devotion to healing a divided nation.
On behalf of the Diocese of Washington I extend our prayers to his wife, Betty and his family during this time of sadness, and I ask God’s blessing upon our former President as he enters the land of light and joy where there is no more sorrow or pain, but only life everlasting.
The Right Reverend John Bryson Chane
Bishop of Washington
December 27, 2006