Christians are paying tribute to conservative political activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
The Turning Point USA founder was killed as he kicked off his 'American Comeback Tour'.
On X, his pastor, Rob McCoy, said he was not only Kirk's faith teacher, but his friend and "biggest fan".
“My friend Charlie Kirk was murdered today by a coward," McCoy said.
"His life will be remembered for many wonderful things. He built it all with the power of the spoken word."
"He never used violence but was threatened every day with violence by those who couldn’t contend with logic and truth, and now they have done to my friend what evil always does; it takes away life," Sean Feucht said on X, passing the message for McCoy. "Charlie did not die, however but instead he has begun to truly live."
Joel Olsteen, senior pastor at Lakewood Church in Houston, sent his heartfelt prayers to Kirk's family and two children, writing: "May God give them comfort and His peace that surpasses all understanding. We pray that God will unify and heal our nation as well. John 16:33: Jesus said, 'In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.'"
American evangelist Franklin Graham wrote on Facebook: "This young man loved his country and invested his time and energy in trying to make it the best it could be. He stood boldly for conservative values and defended free speech for all of us.
"Most importantly, Charlie loved the Lord Jesus Christ. Pray for his wife Erika, their two young children, and all of their family."
He concluded with the same scripture that Erika Kirk posted on social media: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1)".
In his address to commemorate 24 years since the Sept. 11 terror attacks, President Donald Trump said he plans to posthumously award Kirk with the Presidential Medal of Freedom; the highest US civilian honor. Trump's announcement comes as investigators continue to search for the shooter, who remains at large.