The Oklahoma State Capital

The first hints of a cool north wind broke the unseasonable late-summer heat on Wednesday as roughly 350 people gathered in Guthrie for a memorial service honoring Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk.

As the sun dipped toward the western horizon over the left bank of Cottonwood Creek, attendees filled the cul-de-sac in front of Guthrie’s historic Fairmont Creamery. They lined the curb, waved the American flag, and took part in an event unique to the first capital — equal parts somber and hopeful — as Mayor Adam Ropp reflected, “I think the only place we will find comfort is in the presence of God.”

A Turning Point USA official reportedly told attendees the organization has received thousands of applications to start new chapters. That announcement was followed by a presentation from newly elected State Senator Randy Grellner of Payne County and closing remarks from Edmond pastor Dan Fisher of LifePoint Bible Church.

Fisher recognized Daniel Navejas and Kyle Brown of the Guthrie-based Ekklesia organization for their work to organize the meeting and told the crowd that in his 31 years, Charlie Kirk had lived as if he had lived a hundred, because he poured himself fully into his work. He encouraged attendees to follow Kirk’s example and “finish the race.” Fisher closed with an appeal: “One of the greatest tributes you can pay to Charlie is that you give your life to the One who died on the cross.” He asked pastors in the crowd to stand ready to pray with anyone wishing to make that commitment. Several attendees were seen accepting the challenge.

Security appeared top of mind for the gathering. Multiple individuals patrolled the John Gummerson Memorial Bridge and the sloping hill that overlooks the cul-de-sac eastern curb. One of them, who gave his name only as “John,” kept a close watch over the south-facing walkway of the Guthrie viaduct.

John, a resident of northwest Oklahoma City, said he hadn’t followed Kirk closely until after the assassination. But since then, he has come to admire how Kirk treated those he encountered. “The dude was genuine,” John said. “He listened—even to people who disagreed with him.”