Franklin Graham, a Christian evangelist, expressed his thoughts Thursday after the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA.
Graham emphasized that Kirk wished to be remembered primarily for his faith.
“Charlie Kirk mentioned, ‘I want to be remembered for the courage of my faith… the most important thing is my faith in my life.’ While his voice may have been silenced, his impact, legacy, and testimony to Jesus Christ cannot be erased,” Graham stated.
“Just days before his passing, he wrote, ‘Jesus will defeat death, and you can live.’ He was unafraid to share his faith and openly expressed his emotions.”
“I believe the devil overplayed his hand. My hope is that many young individuals will carry on Charlie’s message and boldly speak the truth in a society that often ignores God’s word,” he added this week.
“What a challenge for each of us! What about you?” Graham posed.
Kirk was tragically killed during a lecture at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, leaving behind his wife, Erica, and their two young children. His body was taken to Air Force 2 in Phoenix, Arizona, where Vice President JD Vance led the military honor guard accompanying his remains.
President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he plans to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously.
“Before this event, many Americans shared their sadness and fear over the brutal assassination of Charlie Kirk,” Trump remarked.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful wife, Erica, and their lovely children. We miss him greatly, but there’s no doubt about the courage he inspired in many, especially among the youth,” he continued.
“I’m pleased to announce that Charlie Kirk will soon receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. We will share the date of the ceremony soon, and I can promise one thing.”
The individual suspected of Kirk’s assassination has been arrested and identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.
