Approximately 2,000 people gathered for a Candlelight Vigil and Prayer Night for Charlie Kirk Sept. 15 in Murfreesboro to show support for the slain conservative Christian advocate.

Kirk had launched an "American Comeback Tour" visiting college campuses that started Sept. 10 on the day he was shot and killed at Utah Valley University, while sitting under a tent speaking to a crowd of students.

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Kirk's death has inspired supporters to mourn and celebrate his legacy, including at the Murfreesboro vigil at the Fountains at Gateway development off Medical Center Parkway.

Izzy Faulker, a Rutherford County youth activism leader, told the audience surrounding an outdoor stage at the vigil, that she's witnessed "the way God has moved people" since the death of Kirk.

"This is what Charlie wanted," she said. "If there's a looking glass looking down on earth, Charlie would say I am so proud of you, keep going, keep standing strong, keep doing what you're doing and keep standing for what you believe in because that is what he advocated for."

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The event organizers with Club America and Turning Point USA Chapters in Middle Tennessee touted the vigil to honor "our founder Charlie Kirk."

Kirk was known as a conservative Christian advocate who debated politics and religion with students on college campuses. Also an author, he also frequently appeared on conservative news channels, podcasts and hosted his own podcast. His Turning Point USA sponsored a Teens Against Gender Mutilation event that also attracted LGBTQ+ protesters January 2023 in front of Murfreesboro City Hall.

No protesters appeared to be present at the vigil, though Murfreesboro police officers were present at the event.

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The vigil attracted an audience of all ages. Some wore crosses on necklaces, waved American flags and held signs with various messages, such as, "Repent, Pray & Remember Charlie Kirk."

Audience member Jodi Kreft of Murfreesboro came to the vigil for Charlie Kirk with her two daughters.

"It literally is a turning point in our country and the world," Kreft said.

"He's had such an impact on everyone. It's so important to have courage and stand up for what you believe in like Charlie. We need to get back to our roots, faith and family, and Charlie was trying to instill that message into all of us. We all loved him and still do. His words will live on forever."

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Kirk was known to argue conservative policies and values with college students through debates dubbed, the "Prove Me Wrong Table," on various campuses like at the Utah Valley University event. At such events, he drew opposition, but invited those who disagreed to express their views.

He and his wife, Erika Kirk, were scheduled to speak at the "Culture & Christianity Conference" at World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro Sept. 19-20. Erika Kirk has vowed to continue Turning Point America's scheduled "American Comeback Tour."

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This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Charlie Kirk Vigil by Turning Point Am. drew 2K people in Murfreesboro