In today’s political climate, one might expect the assassination of Charlie Kirk to unleash vengeful hatred in America.  

Instead, his supporters have united in faith. This was evident at a candlelight vigil held on Sept. 25 at Weirton Event Center, organized by the Franciscan University chapter of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) where over 200 people gathered to honor Kirk. 

Beginning at 6:30 p.m., attendees heard local pastors preach and, as the sky darkened, they lit candles to pray for Kirk and his grieving family. 

The seven pastors who spoke all focused on a common theme: Kirk’s faith. They emphasized that Kirk’s number one mission was to lead people to Christ.  

With that in mind, how should Christians respond to Kirk’s death? The pastors pointed to a renewal of faith and prayer. “We must come together in prayer and seek God first … prayer was never meant to be an afterthought, it should be our first response,” said Rev. Jason Cline.  

Attendees quickly put Cline’s advice into practice as Ted Welsch, president of TPUSA’s Franciscan chapter, led the crowd in prayer. He prayed for the repose of Kirk’s soul, for the consolation of his family and for peace in America. As attendees held their candles high, a guitarist played praise and worship music.  

Following the event, Welsch shared that he had sensed a shift in TPUSA since Kirk’s death. He believes Kirk’s death acted as “the catapult to start this movement in the hearts of people … people are saying ‘I agreed with you, and now I believe in it too.’” Welsch thinks that Kirk’s example has inspired more students to take action for the truth.  

Interest in TPUSA at Franciscan has surged. Welsch said that prior to the assassination, only board members attended meetings to discuss business. But the Friday following Kirk’s death, 20 students showed up. “We’re also seeing a lot more interest in helping with our events, like tabling and coming to events like this,” Welsch added.  

Ava Karle, a freshman majoring in clinical psychology and theology, is one of the new members of TPUSA. She credits Kirk for inspiring her to get involved in the pro-life movement. “I hope and pray … that his legacy keeps inspiring young people to come to the faith and stand up for what they believe in,” she said. At the memorial, Karle helped man TPUSA’s table, interacting with passersby and handing out patriotic buttons and stickers.  

TPUSA will host a memorial Oct. 2 in the Gentile Gallery. The event will feature a video montage of his most memorable debate moments and an American history trivia game. TPUSA’s upcoming fall bash is also a fun way to support the organization.  

Students interested in joining TPUSA, should contact Ted Welsch at 614-290-9858 or attend meetings at 6 p.m. Fridays in St. Leo’s in the J.C. Williams Center.