CRAPO: HINCKLEY REMEMBERED AS A GREAT AMBASSADOR OF FAITH

Washington, DC - The following is a statement released by Idaho Senator Mike Crapo on the death of Gordon B. Hinckley, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hinckley passed away at age 97 on Sunday, January 27, 2008, from "causes incident to age."

"I was honored to meet with President Hinckley several times over my years of public service, and am deeply saddened by his passing," Crapo said. "He was a remarkable man, one who brought great kindness and wit to his many years of service to the LDS Church. He proved to be an eloquent spokesman for Christian faith, and had amazing stamina, having traveled throughout the world to more than 60 countries. He will also be remembered for his drive to build temples throughout the world, setting a goal that began a massive temple-building program. His efforts to promote faith were recognized in 2004 when President Bush awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. I join with millions of people throughout the world who mourn his passing; he was a humble, kind and thoughtful man who worked tirelessly for the betterment of not just Mormons around the world, but for all with whom he came in contact. "