Christian Evangelism Event in Utah to Address Community Tragedy

A Christian evangelism event, which is anticipated to attract around 10,000 attendees, is scheduled for Sunday at the Utah university where conservative activist Charlie Kirk was tragically killed two months ago.

The event, called “Hope for America,” is being hosted by Rev. Greg Laurie, the founder of Harvest Crusades and senior pastor at Harvest Church in Southern California. Planned for 6 p.m. at Utah Valley University in Montana, tickets are already sold out, but it will be available to stream online for free.

Laurie intentionally chose to hold the revival at the site of the recent tragedy. “This community has faced an unfathomable loss, and we believe that the message of hope in Jesus Christ is precisely what is needed at this moment,” Rowley shared. “From tragedy, God can offer healing, unity, and revival. We hope this event reminds everyone that evil does not have the final word; Christ does.”

Harvest Church has reportedly reached millions through large-scale evangelism over the past 35 years. Rowley noted that plans for the event had been in progress for two years in collaboration with local churches, but Kirk’s death pushed those efforts into high gear.

“Upon hearing about Charlie Kirk’s assassination, we quickly reached out to a local pastor to see how we could assist,” Rowley recalled. “They urged us to come as soon as possible. Our community is in pain.” The team managed to organize the event in just six weeks, which is notably quicker than their usual year-long preparation period. “There’s a pressing need now, and we believe the gospel message is the solution,” Laurie commented.

Charlie Kirk, a deeply committed Christian and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on September 10 while leading a campus tour. Following his murder, analyses revealed a significant increase in Bible sales and a reported rise in church attendance, suggesting a shift towards spirituality among younger demographics.

Rowley has seen a noticeable “openness to spirituality” among the youth who seem increasingly disillusioned with secular culture. He expressed hope that the upcoming events could serve as “fuel to the fire” for a national spiritual awakening, encouraging Christians to uphold Kirk’s legacy of courageous faith.

Reflecting on the impact of Kirk’s life, Rowley remarked on the challenge it presents to Christians—especially the younger generation—to embrace a bold and fearless expression of faith. “Charlie lived and died for that conviction,” he added.

Worship will be led by Christian artists Chris Tomlin and Phil Wickham during the event, both of whom performed at Kirk’s funeral in September. “We aim to enter those dark spaces and shine the light of Jesus Christ, delivering the gospel that Charlie championed,” Laurie stated. “What was meant for evil will ultimately turn to good.”