The gospel music world and political community are reeling after beloved singer Guy Penrod revealed the final message he received from conservative activist Charlie Kirk — a message that arrived just minutes before Kirk was tragically a.s.s.a.s.s.i.n.a.t.e.d during a university event in Utah.
Penrod, known for his powerful voice and deeply faithful lyrics, broke the news during an emotional livestream that quickly went viral.
Fans who tuned in expecting music updates instead witnessed one of the most raw and heartfelt moments of his career.
“He Sent Me a Message I’ll Never Forget”
Fighting back tears, Penrod told viewers that he was backstage preparing for a concert when his phone buzzed with a message from Kirk.
“It said, ‘Keep the faith, brother. The future needs men who won’t back down,’” Penrod revealed.
Minutes later, he heard the news of Kirk’s death.
“I just… I couldn’t believe it,” he said, pausing to compose himself.
“Those were the last words he ever sent me.
And now I feel like they were meant for all of us.”
A Personal Friendship
Though best known for his music, Penrod has often spoken about the importance of faith, courage, and integrity — values that he says drew him to Kirk in the first place.
“Charlie and I didn’t agree on everything,” Penrod admitted.
“But we shared a belief that truth matters and that you should never be afraid to stand up for what you believe.”
Their friendship, according to Penrod, went beyond public appearances.
The two often exchanged text messages, praying for each other and encouraging one another through challenging times.
The Tragic Utah Incident
Kirk’s death has shocked the nation.
The outspoken founder of Turning Point USA was on stage during a campus speaking event when the attack occurred.
Authorities have confirmed that the incident was targeted, and investigations are still ongoing.
Vigils have sprung up at universities nationwide, with thousands gathering to honor Kirk’s memory.
His sudden death has sparked a renewed debate about political discourse, campus safety, and the role of activism in a divided nation.
Penrod’s Emotional Livestream
Penrod’s livestream has been replayed millions of times across social media platforms.
Viewers described it as part tribute, part call to action.
“He just sat there with his guitar and spoke from the heart,” one fan commented.
“You could see how much this hurt him.”
After reading Kirk’s final message aloud, Penrod performed a moving acoustic rendition of Because He Lives, dedicating it to Kirk’s family and supporters.
“This is how I say goodbye,” he said.
Fans React
Reaction was immediate and emotional. “I’ve been crying for an hour,” wrote one commenter on Facebook.
“Guy reminded us that we have to keep going, no matter how dark it feels right now.”
Others pointed out the poignancy of Kirk’s last words. “‘Keep the faith, brother,’ one user tweeted.
“Those words are going to stay with us. We can’t let them die with him.”
A Call for Unity
Penrod also used the moment to urge listeners to honor Kirk’s memory not with anger, but with action.
“If you want to keep Charlie’s legacy alive, love your neighbor, fight for what’s right, and never stop speaking truth,” he said.
He stressed that Kirk’s message should be seen as a challenge to continue building bridges rather than tearing them down.
“Division won’t heal this loss,” Penrod said. “Only faith and courage will.”
Tributes Pour In
Messages of support for Penrod’s tribute have come from fellow gospel singers, pastors, and even secular musicians who were moved by the moment.
“Guy Penrod just gave the nation a sermon we all needed to hear,” wrote one Christian music journalist.
Politicians and cultural commentators have also shared Kirk’s final message, calling it a rallying cry for resilience in difficult times.
Moving Forward
As investigations into the Utah attack continue, Penrod says he will keep honoring Kirk in his concerts and appearances.
He hinted at the possibility of organizing a benefit performance for Turning Point USA’s youth programs in Kirk’s memory.
“This isn’t the end of his story,” Penrod told viewers.
“If we live out what he stood for, then his voice will keep speaking long after today.”
A Night That Will Be Remembered
For those who watched the livestream, it was more than an update — it was a moment of collective grief and resolve.
As one viewer put it on Instagram:
“Tonight, Guy Penrod didn’t just sing to us — he gave us hope.”
With Kirk’s final message now shared with the world, Penrod’s tribute has turned personal heartbreak into a public call for courage, ensuring that the last words of a fallen activist will inspire far beyond the circle of those who knew him personally.
