Soon after Charlie Kirk’s assassination, President Donald Trump shared his plan to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Kirk’s widow, Erika, would receive the award in her husband’s absence. Pastor Greg Laurie and his wife, Cathe, both of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, were in attendance at the ceremony, and Laurie shared about the experience.
“Charlie Kirk was one of the most influential American political figures of his generation,” read the printed program at the ceremony.
Greg Laurie Reflects on the Presidential Medal of Freedom Presented to Charlie Kirk’s Wife
When Turning Point USA (TPUSA) hosted its second pastors’ summit, Faith Forward, in August, just a month before Charlie Kirk was killed, Kirk and Pastor Greg Laurie were on the list of speakers.
Laurie posted one of many tributes to Kirk, with a heartfelt plea to pray for and support for Erika and their children. Laurie referred to Kirk as “a remarkable young man whose life left a lasting imprint on our nation—and on the world.”
“He was a passionate American patriot, a tireless advocate for truth, and a bold voice for freedom,” Laurie said. “But first and foremost, Charlie was a follower of Jesus Christ, a devoted husband, and a loving father.”
President Donald Trump announced the news of Kirk’s death, which occurred on Sept. 10, and posted a tribute video on X. As Trump stated his plans to posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, he spoke highly of Kirk.
Laurie and his wife, Cathe, were among the invitees for the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony.
“It was a very touching moment as Erika Kirk showed my wife Cathe and Pastor James Kaddis the Medal of Freedom that was presented to her by the President of the United States in honor of her late husband,” said Laurie.
Laurie is seen in the video, alongside Pastor James Kaddis, gazing at the medal and speaking words of encouragement to Erika. He and his wife, Cathe, also hugged Erika.
“One unique and powerful detail was the cross engraved on the back of the medal—something that has never been done before,” Laurie said. “It was added in recognition of Charlie Kirk’s strong faith in Christ.”
t was a very touching moment as Erika Kirk showed my wife Cathe and Pastor James Kaddis the Medal of Freedom that was presented to her by the President of the United States in honor of her late husband.
One unique and powerful detail was the cross engraved on the back of the… pic.twitter.com/l5qC5DUYZT
— Greg Laurie (@greglaurie) October 15, 2025
