Professor Marshall J. Breger of the Columbus School of Law

Senior Fellow of the Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies of The Catholic University of America

Dear Friend of the Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies,

It is with great sorrow that I share the news of the passing of our colleague and friend, Professor Marshall J. Breger, who died Sunday, August 3, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Marshall was a dynamic and influential presence in the Columbus School of Law for decades, known for his intellectual brilliance, diplomatic insight, and deep commitment to fostering academic and interfaith dialogue. He served with distinction as the White House liaison to the Jewish community during the administrations of Presidents Reagan and George H.W. Bush. His expertise on the legal status of holy places earned him recognition among Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, and other religious communities. He was widely regarded as a leading authority in this field.

Professor Breger was also a great friend as Senior Fellow of the Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies. He was instrumental in the institute's most recent conference on "The Nuremberg Principles," and his recent publications on The Vatican and Permanent Neutrality and The Contest and Control of Jerusalem's Holy Sites: A Historical Guide to Legality, Status, and Ownership revealed a scholar who remained relevant and connected to political, legal, and religious matters until his passing.

Professor Breger was devoted to his family—his wife, Jennie; his daughters, Sarah and Esther; and his grandchildren, who were a source of great joy in his later years.

In keeping with Jewish custom, funeral services will be held today, Aug. 4, at 4 p.m. at Woodside Synagogue, 9001 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, Maryland. Burial will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Baron Hirsch Cemetery in Staten Island, New York.

A tribute page to Professor Breger has been posted on the Columbus School of Law website. The Columbus School of Law will also be planning a commemoration of Professor Breger’s life and legacy that will offer an opportunity for colleagues, students, alumni, and friends to honor his extraordinary contributions and pray for the repose of his soul.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing.

David P. Long

Director, Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies