Honoring Charlie Kirk: A Vigil of Faith, Family, and Community

On Sunday evening, our community gathered together for a moving vigil in honor of Charlie Kirk. As the sun began to set, a soft glow filled the Franklin Township Gazebo & surrounding greens as attendees held candles.

Pastor Tom Dickerson of Calvary Chapel Middlesex shared the gospel message, reminding everyone of the foundation of Charlie’s life—his faith in Christ. Worship filled the evening as Somerset Bible Baptist Church sent their singers to lead the crowd in cherished hymns, including Amazing Grace and It Is Well With My Soul. Their voices carried through the evening air, stirring hearts and reminding us of God’s everlasting hope.

“Jesus defeated death so that you can live” - Charlie Kirk

The vigil also included a heartfelt testimony from Kimberly Banks, who spoke about the tragedy of losing her son to gun violence and how her faith in God sustains her through grief. Her words brought both tears and encouragement to all who listened.

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. 1 Peter 3:15

Together, we honored Charlie Kirk’s memory—not only as a man who loved his country and his family, but first and foremost as someone whose greatest priority was to share his faith. His courage, conviction, and commitment to God continue to inspire us to stand strong and united in both word and action.

A special thanks to Phil Rizzo for emceeing the event.

It was a beautiful evening, filled with remembrance and worship. Charlie’s legacy lives on in the faith we carry forward, the love we show our families, and the dedication we give to our country.