Reports from across the United States indicate a significant uptick in church attendance following the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA. Kirk, known for his outspoken Christian faith, was fatally shot at a rally in Utah on Wednesday.
According to the Catholic News Agency, religious institutions are experiencing a surge in attendance, particularly among college students who are not typically regular churchgoers. Matt Zerrusen, co-founder of Newman Ministry, which operates on approximately 250 campuses nationwide, reports, “Some schools are seeing increases of 15%.” Catholic college ministry leaders have corroborated this trend, noting larger crowds at Masses and many unfamiliar faces in attendance.
Related: Stephen Miller Demands Federal Crackdown After Charlie Kirk Investigation Sparks Outrage
Kirk, who frequently expressed his religious convictions on his podcast and during public appearances, had a significant influence on young people. In 2021, he co-founded TPUSA Faith, an organization dedicated to encouraging Christians to actively practice their faith.
This sudden increase in church attendance raises important questions about the impact of public figures on religious participation. Social media platforms have been inundated with posts from individuals stating their intentions to attend church for the first time or to return after long absences.
Zerrusen reports that many college students are now seeking spiritual guidance, asking fundamental questions about evil, God’s role, and how to respond to such events. This suggests a deeper examination of faith and morality in the wake of Kirk’s death.
As we continue to monitor this developing story, it remains to be seen whether this increase in church attendance will be sustained or if it represents a temporary response to a tragic event.
