Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, has publicly forgiven her husband's alleged killer, stating: "I forgive him because it's what Christ did."
Tens of thousands of people gathered at a memorial service in Arizona, to mourn the death of political activist and Christian Charlie Kirk - who was fatally shot while addressing students at Utah Valley University on 10 September.
On-stage at the State Farm Stadium near Phoenix, Erika Kirk said: "On the cross, our Saviour said 'Father, forgive them, for they not know what they do.'" Speaking of her husband's suspected killer Tyler Robinson, Kirk said: "That man - that young man - I forgive him." Kirk proceeded to well up with emotion and was met by a huge round of applause, and standing ovation, from the crowd - many of whom could also be seen in tears.
According to reports, Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with aggravated murder, with prosecutors saying they will seek the death penalty; he is being held without bail in a special housing unit at the Utah County Jail.
"I forgive him because it's what Christ did," Kirk continued. "And it's what Charlie would do. The answer to hate is not hate. The answer we know, from the gospel, is love and always love. Love for our enemies, and love for those who persecute us."
President Trump also gave a speech at the service. Speaking of Charlie Kirk, Trump said: "He did not hate his opponents, he wanted the best for them. That's where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent and I don't want the best for them."
"I'm sorry. I am sorry Erika," Trump continued. "But now Erika [and the whole group] can talk to [me] and maybe they can convince me that that's not right. But I can't stand my opponent."
Read evangelical responses to the assassination of Charlie Kirk currently on the en website:
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