Statement by Bishop Francis X. DiLorenzo and Bishop Michael F. Burbidge on Governor’s decision to commute death sentence of Ivan Teleguz

April 20, 2017

Richmond, VA – We are all children of the same merciful, loving God, and he alone has dominion over all life. Because we have a profound respect for the sanctity of every human life, from its very beginning until natural death, we welcome with gratitude Governor Terry McAuliffe’s decision today to commute the death sentence of Ivan Teleguz, 38.

We continue to express deep sorrow and pray for all victims of violence and their loved ones. Likewise, we continue to pray for a change of heart and a spirit of remorse and conversion for all those who commit acts of violence. We ask God to give us all the grace to work together for justice, peace and respect for all life in our communities and our Commonwealth.