Chris Smith: “today a great man of God, a brilliant writer of homilies and incisive commentary, an extraordinary humanitarian, a…”

“today a great man of God, a brilliant writer of homilies and incisive commentary, an extraordinary humanitarian, a courageous defender of human life, Bishop James T. McHugh, was buried. After a long battle with cancer, Bishop McHugh passed away on December 10. Consistent with how he lived his life, Bishop McHugh faced death like he faced life, with courage, dignity, and an unwavering faith that inspires us all. Prior to his assignment at Rockville Center, New York, Bishop McHugh served with dedication and effectiveness as Bishop of the Diocese of Camden, New Jersey, an area just south of my district. Mr. Speaker, I have had the privilege of knowing this holy man of God and calling him friend for over 25 years. By his words and extraordinary example, Bishop McHugh lived the gospel of Christ with unpretentious passion and humility. Bishop McHugh radiated Christ. He recognized evil and deceit in the world for what it was, yet he never ceased to proclaim reconciliation and renewal through Christ, the sacraments, and the church. Clearly among the best and brightest and clearly among the most wise, Bishop McHugh nevertheless was humble and soft-spoken. His courage to press on against any and all odds was without peer. He was a spiritual giant, and we will miss him dearly. A graduate of Seton Hall University and the Immaculate Conception Seminary in Darlington, New Jersey, Bishop McHugh began his service to the church early in his life.…”