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                            THE WHITE HOUSE
                      Office of the Vice President
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For Immediate Release                                        May 4, 2000
            STATEMENT BY THE VICE PRESIDENT ON THE DEATH OF
                       CARDINAL JOHN J. O'CONNOR

Tipper and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of this nation's most prominent leaders of faith--Cardinal John O'Connor.

Never wavering in his devotion, Cardinal O'Connor not only ministered to millions of Catholics in New York, but also served as a powerful voice for the poor and the homeless all over the world.

Along with his love of God and his fellow man, Cardinal O'Connor served his country with uncommon distinction. From the jungles of Vietnam to our most mighty battleships, Cardinal O'Connor was there attending to the needs of our men and women in uniform. After he retired from military service as a rear admiral, Cardinal O'Connor took his leadership to the Archdiocese of New York -- where he will be long remembered by the countless numbers of New Yorkers who were touched by his words and his works.

His lifetime of selfless commitment to others will remain his greatest legacy and his enduring inspiration.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who loved him.

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