SALT LAKE CITY — The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement Friday night condemning acts of violence and calling for kindness in the wake of the Charlie Kirk shooting.
"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints condemns horrific acts of violence worldwide, including the recent assassination in Utah. We affirm our repeated calls to seek peace and unity despite our differences," church leaders said in the statement.
"Jesus Christ teaches us to love one another, that hate is wrong and that human life is sacred. We urge all to reject violence and instead build understanding.
"Recognizing that we are all children of God, we must treat one another with more dignity, compassion and respect. As we mourn with those who have experienced loss and care for those living in fear or conflict, we call upon people everywhere to build communities of greater kindness and love," the statement concluded.
Conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on Wednesday while he was holding a debate event at Utah Valley University. A manhunt ensued before a suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, was apprehended in southern Utah after police received tips from Robinson's family members and a friend.
