Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker delivered a powerful speech last weekend at the “Courage Under Fire” gala fundraiser for Regina Caeli Academy.

Butker began by expressing gratitude to attendees for supporting Regina Caeli Academy. He acknowledged friends and families present, highlighting his excitement about the organization’s future and its potential to shape future Catholics.

“Thank you to Charlie McKinney for joining us on this journey and for your immediate impact,” Butker said. He also praised Nicole Juba for her years of dedication to RCA and thanked Alissa Walsh for her tireless efforts in organizing the event. Butker further recognized Canon Commons and Father Acres for their support, noting their influence on his personal growth.

Addressing the theme of the night, “Courage Under Fire,” Butker reflected on the recent backlash he faced over his Catholic beliefs. “The theme now feels providential after what we’ve witnessed these past weeks,” he said. Despite the initial wave of hate, Butker noted that many eventually supported his right to religious freedom.

Butker shared his experience of becoming more polarizing as he spoke about his Catholic faith. “It’s a decision I’ve consciously made and one I do not regret,” he said. Emphasizing the importance of truth and charity, Butker encouraged others to trust in God’s providence.

“Our love for Jesus should never be outweighed by our desire to be loved by the world,” he stated. Butker expressed his reliance on Jesus Christ rather than public opinion, drawing inspiration from the courage of saints and martyrs.

He urged attendees to embrace their faith courageously, even in the face of opposition. “Being disliked and mischaracterized by some is nothing compared to finding yourself in a lion’s den,” he remarked.

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