Hundreds of Israelis and American Christian visitors gathered in Jerusalem on Sunday to honor Charlie Kirk, the U.S. conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, who was murdered earlier this year.
The memorial, attended by roughly 300 people, drew Israeli officials, clergy, tourists, and longtime followers, who described Kirk as a rare public figure whose influence extended far beyond politics.
Pastor Rob McCoy, one of Kirk’s closest friends and advisers, recalled Kirk as principled, private, and deeply devoted to his family.
“He didn’t care about glory. He always deflected compliments,” McCoy said. “He was faithful, humble, a wonderful husband and father.” McCoy also revealed a personal routine Kirk rarely discussed publicly: the strict observance of a weekly day of rest. “He found unbelievable freedom in turning everything off. From Friday night to Saturday night, no one could reach him,” McCoy said. “That rhythm grounded him.”