Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has offered prayers for the late American political activist Charlie Kirk, his wife, and their two children, while expressing concern over rising political violence in public life, the Holy See Press Office confirmed on Tuesday.
In a statement, Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, said the Pope addressed the matter during his audience with Brian Francis Burch, the newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, who presented his credential letters on September 13. “The Pope confirmed that he is praying for Charlie Kirk, his wife, and his children,” Bruni noted. He added that Pope Leo XIV also underscored the importance of avoiding rhetoric and actions that deepen polarization instead of fostering dialogue.
Charlie Kirk, 31, was a prominent American activist, author, and media personality who co-founded the organization Turning Point USA. He was shot and killed on September 10 during a public event at the Utah Valley University campus, shocking supporters and drawing nationwide attention to issues of political violence. His funeral is scheduled for Sunday, September 21, in Glendale, Arizona.
The Pope’s expression of solidarity comes amid growing concern over political divisions and the potential for violence fueled by public and partisan conflicts. In his discussion with the U.S. Ambassador, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the need for restraint, civil discourse, and the pursuit of reconciliation over confrontation.
Mr. Bruni highlighted that the audience was also an occasion for the Pope to convey condolences to the bereaved family and to call attention to the broader responsibility of leaders and citizens alike to prevent violence and promote peaceful dialogue in society.
As the world reacts to Kirk’s untimely death, the Vatican’s message stresses both compassion for the grieving family and a reminder of the moral imperative to uphold dialogue, unity, and human dignity amid political disputes.