Jenkins recalls Hesburgh as moral force, model, mentor

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) - University of Notre Dame President Rev. John Jenkins is remembering the Rev. Theodore Hesburgh as a model and mentor and a moral force in all major social issues of his day.

Jenkins says the most important thing anyone can say about "Father Ted" is that he was a priest and a man of faith. Jenkins says Notre Dame lost a "piece of its heart" with the passing of Hesburgh on Thursday night, but says he'll live on through his work.

Jenkins choked up recalling how Hesburgh was always available as an adviser and Hesburgh calling Jenkins' mother to comfort her when times were tough.

Jenkins says aside from the Rev. Edward Sorin, the founder of the university, no one had a greater impact on Notre Dame than Hesburgh.