Vice President JD Vance delivered an emotional tribute to Charlie Kirk at his memorial service Sunday.
Speaking to a packed State Farm Stadium, Vance urged Americans to honor Kirk’s legacy by turning toward Jesus Christ.
A Personal Reflection
Vance said Kirk inspired him to speak more openly about his faith.
“I have talked more about Jesus Christ in the past two weeks than in my entire public life,” he admitted.
JD Vance
He credited Kirk’s example with giving him courage to share his beliefs.
The crowd of more than 60,000 responded with a standing ovation.
Vance described Kirk as a man who deeply loved God.
He said Kirk’s faith shaped how he viewed the world and others.
Kirk, he said, saw people as God’s creation, deserving of respect.
Remembering Kirk’s Character
The vice president called Kirk a kind and down-to-earth person.
He said Kirk treated staffers and supporters with dignity.
Kirk showed the same respect to everyday people as to world leaders.
Vance noted this kindness was most evident behind closed doors.
He described Kirk as consistent, genuine, and humble in private life.
He said Kirk’s legacy was rooted in faith and service.
Vance said his friend lived with integrity and conviction.
Responding to Hatred
Vance condemned the radical left’s celebration of Kirk’s assassination.
He acknowledged the evil and hatred expressed since the tragedy.
But he praised supporters for showing courage and faith in response.
He said Kirk would tell them to confront evil honestly.
He would also encourage them to focus on the good.
“For every hateful voice, a thousand mourn his death,” Vance said.
He urged prayer for friends and even for enemies.
He reminded the crowd to “put on the full armor of God.”
A Message of Faith
Vance said Kirk would tell his friends to keep fighting.
He encouraged the audience to remember Kirk through prayer.
He said his friend’s death sparked a spirit of revival.
Kirk’s legacy, he argued, was faith, truth, and courage.
Vance quoted Scripture to underscore his message of hope.
He cited Christ’s words: “Take heart, I have overcome the world.”
The vice president urged believers to find peace in Jesus.
He said tribulation should not shake their resolve.
Final Tribute
Vance closed with a tribute to Kirk’s short but purposeful life.
“It’s better to die a young man than sell your soul,” he said.
He praised Kirk for living with risk, love, and truth.
He said Kirk embodied courage in both life and death.
Vance told mourners to honor Kirk by following Christ’s example.
He said the Gospel offers peace amid tribulation.
The speech ended with thunderous applause from thousands in attendance.
WATCH THE FULL SPEECH
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