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6h ago

Cardinal Dolan Calls Charlie Kirk a 'Modern‑Day St. Paul,' Prompting Sainthood Push and Criticism

The comparison has fueled canonization appeals, with church rules imposing a years‑long process before any case can proceed.

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Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while attending an event at Utah Valley University on September 10.
US cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan attends a press conference of US cardinals, a day after the new pope's election, at the North American College in Rome on May 9, 2025. | (Photo by ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Speaking on Fox News, New York’s Cardinal Timothy Dolan praised Kirk as a missionary and hero who embodied the verse, “The truth will set you free.”
  • Social media users urged sainthood for Kirk, though Archdiocese of New York guidance requires a five‑year wait unless the Pope grants an exception, followed by beatification and canonization steps tied to martyrdom or verified miracles.
  • Dolan’s remarks drew objections from critics, including Democrat Joe Walsh and an op‑ed in the holic RepCatholic Reporter rejecting comparisons to St. Paul.
  • Kirk’s funeral is scheduled for Sunday at the Arizona Cardinals stadium, with reports saying prominent political figures, including President Donald Trump, plan to attend.
  • Authorities say the alleged shooter, identified as Tyler Robinson, was taken into custody after Kirk was fatally shot during a Sept. 10 event at Utah Valley University.