Father Richard John Neuhaus, 1936-2009

First Things editor Joseph Bottum writes that Father Neuhaus passed away this morning.

Father Neuhaus's Death on a Friday Afternoon: Meditations on the Last Words of Jesus from the Cross, given me by a Catholic friend, was one of the first Catholic books I read following my conversion to Christianity, making him part of the web of grace that led me into the Church.

I had the honor of meeting him a few times and hearing him preach. As a writer, he is known for his fiery orthodoxy, but in person he had a gentle and very pastoral manner. I am thankful for his life and very sorry we have lost his presence in this world.