The sudden death of Tim Russert, NBC News Washington Bureau Chief, and host of Meet The Press sent shockwaves all across the nation.  He died much too young, and left a gaping hole in the lives of his immediate family members and friends, and in the reasoned and intelligent political discourse of our country.  Tributes poured in from every direction, articles were written about him, and his world of television devoted numerous hours to portraying the story of his life and work.

Consistent in the testimonies from those who knew him, worked with him, and were interviewed by him was the notion that Russert reflected values important to him that he learned and embraced from his childhood in Buffalo, New York.  Always mentioned, in addition to the emphasis on love of family, and hard work, was faith.  Tim Russert was Catholic, and it meant a lot to him.

Timothy Shriver shares his personal reflections on Russert, and tells of a recent conversation the two had regarding Shriver’s uncle, Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA), recently diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor.  Russert told Shriver he was praying for his uncle, using his wood bead rosary.

Shriver took comfort in this support from Russert, and wrote, “Many things will be written about the greatness of this brilliant journalist in the days ahead, and many people knew him far better than I.  But I hope amid all the political and journalistic wisdom, people will remember that Tim Russert was a man raised and steeped in faith – a faith that focused on service, a faith that is confident in God’s plan, and a faith dedicated to the love of peace and the work of justice.”

Tim Russert didn’t make a lot of noise about his religious convictions, but his faith colored his behavior and relationships.  It was evident to those who knew him. 

Clearly, this is the most effective witness.