Rep Chris Smith (R-NJ) issued the following statement on the passing of Bishop Emeritus John M. Smith of Trenton:

"Bishop Smith was a man of deep faith, kindness, and an amazing leader of our diocese. He had an incredible sense of humor.

“Like so many others, my wife Marie and I were both encouraged and challenged by his homilies and exhortations to faithfully know, love, and serve God at home and in the public square. 

“With clarity and gentleness, he defended the weakest and most vulnerable including unborn children.

“He radiated the love of Christ to everyone he met.”