In a recent interview with Christianity Today, Bush advisor Karl Rove said of Colson, "He was more concerned about the policy. What could be done to broaden the role of faith-based institutions in the public square? What efforts was the president willing to make, whether it was children of prisoners or to help ensure faith-based groups had a bigger role in anti-recidivism efforts. His attitude was, 'You have bright, young people involved in the politics. Can I talk to you about substantive questions of policy?'"
Colson's influence on the forty-third president and its ongoing impact is still felt around the world today. On October 26, 2003, the lead story in The New York Times was headlined, "Evangelicals Sway White House on Human Rights Issues Abroad." Colson was the first person mentioned in the article that reported how he and others were responsible for a new set of initiatives from the Bush Administration. As a result of Colson's efforts, new and sweeping initiatives were being put in place towards ending the war in Sudan, halting sex trafficking and preventing the global spread of AIDS.
Colson contributed in several other arenas, as well, including seminary education. Dr. Robert Cooley, President-Emeritus of Gordon-Conwell Theological seminary, says the following: "Chuck Colson was very concerned that young theologians would leave seminary with a well-developed Christian worldview and an understanding that a Christian apologetic was essential to minister in a post-Christian world.
After a long and rich life, a life of great sin, great redemption and great service, may he rest in peace.
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