WASHINGTON, D.C.--It was like being hit in the stomach. And even before we had time to catch our breath, we took another wallop in the midsection. We all knew these blows were coming, but somehow, this time, knowing did little to prepare us. Nothing could soften the impact. Worse still, we knew the pain would last a very long time.

After a long struggle, the life of an innocent woman was taken. And as his health began to deteriorate, it became clear that the body of a great but old man could no longer keep up with his still brilliant and vibrant mind.

These were days of heartbreak; the deepest kind of sorrow. It was the kind of sorrow that left us not only in pain, but also a bit frightened about the future--for our children, our parents, our country, and our world.

We had only God to lean on. To remind us that He is still in control. To assure us that He has a perfect plan. To show us His love and compassion in the midst of despair.

The following text statement was released by LDI President Douglas R. Scott following the killing of Terri Schindler Schiavo:

The willful and senseless killing of Terri Schindler Schiavo was not only a crime against Terri; it was a crime against humanity itself.  This tragic event is sure to be repeated over and over again unless all people of faith and life stand up and be counted. A nation of caring people grieves and we pray that the Schindler family will realize God's peace and grace. I do not believe that Terri's death was "God's will," as some claim. God allowed mankind to exercise free will and the will of man proved deadly for a woman who, in the eyes of far too many people, could not measure up. Man--and man alone--is fully responsible. While God accepted the decisions made by man, He surely weeps with us.

LDI President Douglas R. Scott issued the following statement after the death of Pope John Paul II:

On behalf of Life Decisions International, I want to extend my deepest sympathy to our Catholic brothers and sisters on the passing of a truly great man...this is a time of great sadness.

Please know that we are praying for the Catholic Church and her people. We pray that God will guide the College of Cardinals in the selection of the next pope. And if the next pope is even half the leader, the teacher, the peacemaker, the man John Paul II was, the Catholic Church will be in good hands.

I had the honor of meeting John Paul II on several occasions. While I am not Catholic (not yet, anyway, as my close friends will tell you), I like to think that I know a truly godly man when I see one, and John Paul II was a godly man indeed. We thank God for his life and service.

God bless you all at this time of sorrow and hope.