“I hope everyone in Pax Christi USA will join me in celebrating the life of an extraordinary man, Fr. John Rausch. John was named Pax Christi USA Teacher of Peace in 2007; he was a champion for the poor in Appalachia, and a leading religious figure in the fight against climate change. He was a very good friend to me personally and an ardent supporter of Pax Christi USA. I am really shocked to have heard about his passing. We have lost an incredible voice for peace and justice in the world today.”
~ Johnny Zokovitch, Executive Director of
Pax Christi USA, upon learning of the passing of
Pax Christi USA Teacher of Peace Fr. John Rausch,
February 8, 2020
A sampling of John’s wisdom and insight:
- John on “The Biblical & Traditional Basis for Care of Creation” (video)
- “Choosing a presidential candidate” (2004) and “Election Day considerations” (2012)
- Reflecting on “fear” in this reflection for the first Sunday of Advent in 2015
- “Climate change is a moral issue” (2015)
- For more items featuring John and his writing, click here (and keep clicking on “older posts” at the bottom of each page to see more)
Read the Catholic Committee of Appalachia’s obituary of John here.
Read the obituary from the Glenmary Home Missioners here.
Fr.John was a true champion of social justice and the care of creation. He was deeply rooted in the lives of the Appalachian people as he was deeply in love with the land he called home. He poured out his life to protect them both.
I was fortunate to take part–under the leadership of Fr. John Rausch–in the 2018 Pax Christi Pilgrimage to the Holy Land of Appalachia. It was an affirmation of solidarity and service. I am forever indebted to, and will never forget, Fr. John, his mentorship, his passion for the people of Appalachia, his example of servant leadership, his personal encouragement, his keen insights, his appreciation for spiritual fluidity in service of the Kingdom. At the conclusion, he asked if someday there would be an ecumenical pilgrimage. I answered that it was inevitable because I was a Methodist warmly embraced by my fellow Catholic sojourners! I would end this tribute with “rest in peace,” good and faithful servant, but I cannot imagine Fr. John resting while there is so much left to be done. No, he will be cheering us on until the morning stars sing together again. Sadness celebrates a race well run, the good fight fought.