Pope Leo XIV prays for Charlie Kirk's family after his tragic assassination

Pope Leo XIV extended his prayers recently for Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was tragically murdered during an event at Utah Valley University in the United States on September 10, 2025. Charlie Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA, was shot and killed, leading to widespread shock and condemnation of the act of violence. The alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, aged 22, has been charged with aggravated murder and was tracked down and persuaded to turn himself in after a two-day manhunt. During an audience with the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, Brian Burch, the pope expressed his concern over political violence, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue over inflammatory rhetoric. Pope Leo XIV had met with Ambassador Burch in what was marked as their first official meeting. Burch noted that the moment was significant as it was a unique time for diplomacy, with an American serving as the ambassador to the Vatican alongside the first American pope. While the pope sent a telegram of condolences last month following a tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minnesota, he notably chose not to send one regarding Kirk’s assassination. This choice adds a layer of complexity to the relationship between the Vatican and the evolving political landscape influenced by the personalities involved. The assassination has brought attention to the rising political tensions and violence within the United States. The impact of political rhetoric, as remarked by Pope Leo XIV, suggests a dire need for reflection within political circles to promote dialogue rather than division. Ambassador Burch highlighted the pope's reminder that he is a global leader, serving beyond national loyalties, which underscores the overarching theme of the need for unity amidst polarization fueled by recent sad events.