As chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, Kansas City Archbishop Joseph Naumann wrote the following letter to Pro-Life Action League co-founder Ann Scheidler upon the death last month of her husband, Pro-Life Action League founder Joe Scheidler. (The original letter can be viewed here [PDF].)
January 23, 2021
Ann Scheidler
Pro-Life Action League
6160 N. Cicero Ave. Ste. 600
Chicago, IL 60646Dear Ann:
I write on behalf of my brother bishops and staff to offer deepest condolences on the loss of your dear husband, Joseph. As a married couple, your great witness to life was only outdone by your generous witness to love, marriage and family life. Thank you for your relentless teamwork in building a Culture of Life, and for the many hardships that you overcame together.
Joe Scheidler will always be remembered as a faithful Catholic and an inspirational pro-life leader who leveraged every opportunity to raise awareness to the great tragedy of abortion. He was a relentless and prophetic voice who inspired generations to follow his example of creativity and determination to right a grave evil. Yet, Joe was also a leader with a compassionate heart. Through the work of the Pro-Life Action League, Joe encouraged many in the abortion industry to join the side of life and walk away from the culture of death.
Today, countless children, mothers and fathers, and even former abortion providers have been rescued through the efforts of Joe. His legacy and his influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.
Please be assured of our continued prayers and our profound gratitude.
Sincerely yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life,
Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann
Archbishop of Kansas City, Kansas
Chairman
U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
Committee on Pro-Life Activities
