Verona, PA - Former presidential candidate and Senator Rick Santorum issued the following statement upon learning of the passing of Chuck Colson, founder of Prison Fellowship Ministries:

“Karen and I were deeply saddened to learn about Chuck’s passing.  Over the last few years, both in and out of public life, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know Chuck and have admired him and his commitment to living out his faith.

“Chuck was a humble man who learned from his own frailty to care for the ‘least of these,’ especially prisoners.  His work to bring Christianity to those who were in their darkest days changed the lives of many.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Chuck’s wife Patty, the entire Colson family and the community at Prison Fellowship Ministries during this very difficult time.  Chuck was a patriot, who loved his country and loved serving his God, and we are all a little better off for having known him.”

Verona, PA - The Rick Santorum for President campaign released the following statement regarding the daughter of Rick Santorum, Bella Santorum, and Monday’s campaign events.

Hogan Gidley said: “Senator Santorum will not hold any campaign related events on Monday so that he and Karen can remain in the hospital with their daughter Bella. The entire Santorum family is incredibly grateful for the outpouring of prayers and support.”