Hundreds gathered in Jerusalem for a memorial honoring the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, emphasizing a renewed commitment to his ideals of defending truth and liberty. The event, which brought together Israeli officials, clergy, and U.S. Christians, was described as more of a mandate than a mere remembrance, with attendees vowing to continue Kirk’s legacy. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was tragically shot and killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in September. The gathering highlighted Kirk’s personal discipline and his vision of politics as a path to societal strengthening, rather than personal power. His influence extended beyond his audience, resonating deeply with those who saw him as a defender of truth and Israel.
Pastor Rob McCoy, one of Kirk’s closest confidants, described him as ‘faithful, humble, a wonderful husband and father,’ revealing a personal discipline of a weekly Sabbath rest, which grounded him. Kirk saw politics as an on-ramp to increased humanity, believing that if he could get young people rowing in the streams of liberty, they would eventually reach its source. The event underscored the deep impact Kirk had on those who knew him, with attendees expressing how his words and actions left an indelible mark.
Israel’s Minister of Diaspora Affairs, Amichai Chikli, praised Kirk’s discipline and resolve, noting that his death was a tremendous loss to the conservative movement worldwide and to all who saw him as a defender of truth. Attendees left the gathering determined to carry forward Kirk’s mission, with one stating, ‘Charlie is gone, but the truth he fought for is not. And it’s up to us now.’