Christianity

Erika addressed thousands of mourners gathered at State Farm Stadium on Sunday to honor her late husband.

During her speech, she reflected on Charlie's mission to guide young people, including those struggling or at risk, saying, "He wanted them to have a better life and a better path."

She drew parallels between her act of forgiveness and the teachings of Jesus Christ, citing His words from the cross, "My husband, Charlie. He wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life. That young man. That young man on the cross. Our Savior said, 'Father, forgive them, for they not know what they do.' That man. That young man. I forgive him."

She continued: "I forgive him because it was what Christ did and it is what Charlie would do. The answer to hate is not hate. The answer we know from the gospel is love and always love. Love for our enemies and love for those who persecute us."