WASHINGTON, SEPT. 5, 2007 — Edwin J. Feulner, the president of The Heritage Foundation, issued the following statement on the death of Dr. D. James Kennedy, founder of Coral Ridge Ministries:

  "Dr. Kennedy became 'pastor to the nation' by being, first and foremost, a pastor to individuals.  He touched the lives of millions of men, women and children, and left each of them far better for the experience.  In him, Heritage found a strong ally in the cause of restoring our nation to the values and principles that the Founding Fathers held dear.  

"The mission of The Heritage Foundation and the heart and passion of Dr. Kennedy have much in common.  As we at Heritage mourn the passing of this visionary and passionate leader, we renew our commitment to pursue our shared goal of a reinvigorated civil society for America."