Hundreds gathered in Jerusalem for a memorial honoring slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, vowing to continue his mission of defending truth and supporting liberty. The event, reported by the Press Service of Israel (TPS-IL), included Israeli officials, clergy, and American Christians, with many describing the gathering as less a memorial and more a mandate to carry on Kirk’s work. Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in September. His supporters expressed deep admiration, with Pastor Rob McCoy highlighting Kirk’s faithfulness, humility, and commitment to family, noting his weekly Sabbath rest as a source of grounding.
Attendees, including prominent conservatives like Donald Trump and major GOP figures, emphasized Kirk’s impact on young conservatives and his role in advocating for Israel. Israel’s Minister of Diaspora Affairs, Amichai Chikli, praised Kirk’s discipline and resolve, calling his death a significant loss to the conservative movement. Musicians and clergy alike echoed the sentiment that Kirk’s legacy is enduring and his moral conviction continues to inspire. Speakers throughout the evening returned to one of Kirk’s final recorded statements: ‘In the absence of courage, truth is an orphan.’ As the evening ended, attendees said the gathering left them determined to carry forward his mission. ‘Charlie is gone, but the truth he fought for is not,’ one attendee said. ‘And it’s up to us now.’