Villanova students gathered at the University’s Mother of Good Counsel statue on Thursday, Sept. 18 at 7:30 p.m. to mourn and celebrate the life of late conservative activist Charles James Kirk.
Kirk, 31, was assassinated by 22-year-old suspect Tyler Robinson on Wednesday, Sept. 10 during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University.
His death ignited feelings of grief, as well as injustice, inspiring Americans around the country to unite in Kirk’s honor.
Dozens of Villanovans came together to participate in the vigil organized by the Villanova University College Republicans (VUCR), which began with speeches by four student-speakers, a prayer led by Father Bernie Scianna, O.S.A., Ph.D., Senior Associate Dean of Students for Student Support and concluded with a moment of silence to reflect on Kirk’s legacy.
“The idea for the vigil came internally from Villanova College Republicans after some deliberation following conversations with a few members,” VUCR Vice President Rahul Singh, said. “We were all crestfallen about the news of Charlie’s murder, and many members expressed wanting to do something to honor his memory. This idea became a plan within two days of the tragedy. A small team of us got to work, emailing OSI and sourcing candles, flowers and a picture for the display. We were also honored to have the church’s own Father Bernie come speak and lead us in prayer.”
The vigil focused on Kirk’s beaming faith in God and unwavering commitment to promoting freedom of speech and sharing the truth.
Quoting the words of Villanova alumnus George Raveling, ‘60, who recently passed away, Father Bernie’s remarks described truth as not “just a personal ethic, but a sacred duty.”
In his sermon, Father Bernie echoed St. Augustine’s belief that “hope has two children: anger and courage. Anger at the way things are and courage to do something about it.”
“Our faith calls us to action,” Father Bernie said. “Charlie did that to the best of his ability.”
Thursday evening, some Villanovans remembered Kirk as a martyr and American hero.
“Charlie promoted standing up for what you believe in and tried to give an example to people to do the same– without violence and without killing,” Father Bernie said. “When we disagree with somebody, we stop talking to them. I think Charlie would probably agree we need to talk more, not less when we disagree.”
After the ceremony, VUCR President senior Andy Smith stated that he believes “[Charlie’s] legacy will be one of open political dialogue.”
As president, Smith hopes to uphold Kirk’s message by encouraging freedom of speech.
“The College Republican and College Democrat debate was coincidentally one way of honoring his legacy,” Smith said. He continued to explain that “…students can [honor Charlie’s legacy] day-to-day by having real conversations with people, especially people they disagree with.”
Smith acknowledged the outpour of support from and inspiring attendance by Villanova students at Kirk’s vigil, thanking everyone for their time. However, he also expressed his discontent with the University’s lack of response to the tragedy.
“There should have been a statement made,” Smith said. “Charlie Kirk is an influential political commentator of our generation. He’s someone who went to college campuses and was, unfortunately, assassinated on a college campus for just having political dialogue.”
University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D., personally informed Smith that he was unable to attend the vigil. Still, Smith wished the University formally addressed Kirk’s assassination.
Regardless of the University’s silence, the turnout at Thursday’s vigil showcased the importance Kirk’s message and movement held and continues to hold in the lives of many Villanovans.
