A pastor in Texas sparked outrage after making light of Charlie Kirk’s assassination.
Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas has since announced a medical leave of absence.
Haynes’s Sermon
Instead of offering condolences, Haynes mocked the tragedy from the pulpit.
Here’s wider context. To his credit, Haynes says “he still should be alive. He still should be playing with his kids. He still should be experiencing the love [of] his wife.”
But you can see he does air-quotes when calling Kirk a “Christian,” smears him as racist, and says he… pic.twitter.com/MGLRmuEqF4
— Woke Preacher Clips (@WokePreacherTV) September 15, 2025
He questioned Kirk’s faith and referred to the shooting as “white-on-white crime.”
He sarcastically put air quotes around the word “Christian” while speaking.
Haynes told his congregation, “Don’t compare Kirk to King.”
He contrasted Kirk’s death with the assassinations of black civil rights leaders.
He claimed Kirk was not assassinated, dismissing his killing outright.
Political Ties
Haynes is the pastor of Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas.
Jasmine Crockett
Critics noted Crockett’s rhetoric often echoes the pastor’s far-left tone.
Some questioned whether she absorbed her hostility from his influence.
Medical Leave
Hours after the sermon, Haynes announced a leave of absence.
The church said he would undergo surgery and focus on recovery.
Frederick D. Haynes III
CBS News Texas reported the pastor is expected to return after healing.
“While this is a personal challenge, I stand firm in my faith,” Haynes said.
He quoted James 5:15, saying he trusted in God’s healing power.
He thanked supporters for their “prayers, love, and understanding.”
Reaction
Conservatives blasted Haynes for mocking a murdered father and husband.
They said his words dishonored both his office and his faith.
For many, the episode underscored how political hatred has poisoned the pulpit.
