
By Lillie Jaenchen
Today marks what would have been Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk’s 32nd birthday, and people around the world, including President Donald Trump, are honoring his legacy.
“Charlie was a courageous young Christian who boldly spoke truth and shared his faith in Christ with millions,” described pastor Greg Laurie on Facebook. “At just 18 years old, he founded Turning Point USA from scratch — an organization that continues to shape a generation.”
In the month since Kirk’s assassination on Sept. 10 in Utah, America has witnessed a renewed interest in Jesus and the church, largely due to Kirk’s outspoken faith.
“I want to be remembered for courage for my faith,” he said of his hopes for his legacy before his death.
Today, President Trump will posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. His wife, Erika Kirk, will accept it on his behalf.
Oct. 14 is also the National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk, following a resolution passed by the House of Representatives last month. Many of his fans are wearing red today to honor Kirk’s memory.
“We know Charlie is very much alive in Heaven right now, but we all wish he could be here to see the impact of his legacy,” Laurie wrote. “His life and his death have inspired a new generation to rise up, stand for truth, and be counted.”
Others who knew and loved Kirk reflected on the impact he had on their lives and shared their hope in heaven.
“I miss you deeply. There’s an ache that words can’t touch,” Kirk’s friend and colleague Mikey McCoy posted on X. “But beneath that ache…There is hope. The hope of heaven and the promise that this separation is not the end. The hope that one day, when I’m called home, and time and sorrow cease, I’ll see my beloved Savior. And I’ll see you again. I can’t wait to see you again.”
Podcaster Allie Beth Stuckey wrote, “Happy birthday, Charlie. We really miss you down here, but I’m so happy you get to spend this day with Jesus.”
She added, “Make sure to pray for his sweet family today.”
Benny Johnson, a conservative personality, said on X, “Happy Birthday Charlie. Still looking up to you. What’s Heaven like, man?”
TPUSA posted a touching tribute video narrated with clips from speeches by Kirk’s wife describing their relationship.
Is Charlie Kirk’s death responsible for the growing revival in the US?
“Happy Birthday, Charlie,” TPUSA wrote.
In the month since Kirk’s murder, interest in faith has skyrocketed.
“I think what we’re seeing is just the latest very tragic example of the fact that disruptions lead people to question the way they’re living their lives day to day,” Dr. John Plake, editor-in-chief of the State of the Bible series and chief innovation officer at the American Bible Society (ABS), told Faithwire.
Journalist Nick Sortor shared on X the Sunday after Kirk’s assassination, “Patriots across the country are reporting their Churches are JAMPACKED this Sunday morning in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s killing.”
Continue to keep Kirk’s widow, Erika, their two young children and all his friends and family in your prayers as they grieve and step forward in life without him. Pray also that the legacy of his faith would continue to transform hearts around the world for Christ.
Questions or comments? Please write to us here.