U.S Senator Robert Casey, Jr., said, “I worked with him closely through the years on a number of issues. He was a forceful advocate, an effective leader and a much beloved shepherd for the people of Harrisburg, Philadelphia and all of Pennsylvania. I join the Diocese of Harrisburg in mourning the passing of a good man.”
U.S. Senator Pat Toomey said, “Kris and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Bishop McFadden. A native of Philadelphia, the Bishop was called to serve, whether he was coaching basketball or ministering to many of us as the Tenth Bishop of Harrisburg. His love, caring, and spiritual guidance will be missed by all who benefited from his wisdom over the years.”
Governor Tom Corbett said, “During the past two years I had the pleasure and privilege of knowing and working with His Excellency, Bishop McFadden. He combined a scholar’s understanding of scripture with a compassion and understanding of the value of every human. He brought these qualities to bear in guiding the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, and in setting an example for all people of all faiths. Susan and I offer our sympathy to the bishop’s family and to the wider church family that mourn his passing and celebrate his life and ministry.”
Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick wrote on his Facebook page, “I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Bishop Joseph McFadden this morning. Bishop McFadden, a Philadelphia native, served faithfully as the tenth bishop of the Harrisburg Diocese. My heartfelt prayers go out to his family and all of those who benefited from his wisdom and spiritual guidance.”
Congressman Scott Perry said, “The passing of Bishop Joseph McFadden is truly a sad moment for the Diocese of Harrisburg. Bishop McFadden was a true servant of God and, because of his deep devotion to his faith and others, countless Pennsylvanians were positively impacted by his service. His work in the Diocese of Harrisburg will be remembered for generations, and I will remember him for his lifelong love and devotion to all of the residents of Pennsylvania.”
Senator Joe Scarnati, President Pro Tempore of the PA Senate wrote on Twitter that he was, “saddened by the passing of Bishop McFadden of Harrisburg Diocese – He will be remembered as a Great Leader & Strong Man of Faith”
Senator Jake Corman tweeted, “My condolences to the Harrisburg Diocese on the passing of Bishop McFadden”
State Senator Rob Teplitz posted on Twitter, “My sincerest condolences to the Catholic community on the sudden passing of Bishop McFadden.”
Dauphin County Commissioner George Hartwick III said, “He was truly a people person…He never spoke down to anybody. He was full of life. He had a passion for service.”
Dauphin County District Attorney Ed Marsico said, “He was a good man for our diocese… He was very big on Catholic education and was doing great things in that regard.”
