Hundreds of people gathered at the Kennedy Center Sunday evening for a prayer vigil after Charlie Kirk's murder at Utah Valley University.

Members of Congress and the Trump cabinet were among those reflecting on Kirk's legacy and how his death is impacting the country.

"The leaders of the nation have been shaken, as have university students and college students and young people all across the country -- the ground was shifted beneath us. We all felt it deep, deep," said House Speaker Mike Johnson. "In spite of that, we remember that our dear friend Charlie would never want us to be overcome by despair."

While prominent leaders attended the prayer vigil inside the Kennedy Center, lines of people waiting to get in for the prayer vigil formed outside.

National Guard troops -- some with long guns -- maintained presence on and near the property. There were officers from several different local and federal agencies in their cars and on foot.

A lone protester with a megaphone made anti-Trump statements, but the vigil went on as planned.

Some participants told News4 they didn't necessarily know or agree with all of Kirk's views, but they wanted to pay their respects.

"Talking, but not fighting with each other or swearing at each other or throwing things at each other, so I admire that greatly," said Jim Norris who was waiting in line.

"I'm just showing my respect for Charlie Kirk," said Esther Hyun, another attendee. "I admire him, and I think he was such a good debater."

Inside the event, speakers reflected on Kirk's life and legacy, condemning the violence that took his life on Wednesday in front of thousands of people who had shown up for his Turning Point USA event.

While his critics describe him as divisive and wrong on his views, those at the vigil said they appreciated his willingness to stand for what he believed in and have open dialogue.

"I admire his style of giving opinion and or his belief and listening to another person," said Nancy Ferrell.

"I think part of why he founded that organization was people felt kind of isolated, and that's when people tend to lash out," said another attendee. "They feel like they're not being heard."

A memorial service for Kirk is scheduled for Sept. 21 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. President Donald Trump says he will attend the service.