MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) - Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was scheduled to speak at World Outreach Church in on September 19th and 20th as part of the Culture & Christianity Conference. The event was expected to feature Kirk’s signature engagement with cultural and political issues through a Christian lens.

Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University Wednesday (September 10th). The incident occurred in front of a large audience of college students, where Kirk was known for hosting open debates on conservative values.

World Outreach Pastor Allen Jackson, on X, called Kirk "a bold truth-teller, brother in Christ, and friend." He went on to say "His (Kirk) voice has been tragically silenced, but God’s truth will never be silenced. We will grieve with those who grieve, yet we will walk into the morning with the hope that no matter what takes place in this present age, God’s plan will be carried forward."

The church has promoted the conference as a space to explore truth, faith, and cultural clarity. Kirk’s participation was anticipated to be a central feature of the two-day gathering.

Every day we have is a gift from the Lord. What occurred on Utah Valley University’s campus today is a sobering reminder of that.@charliekirk11 was a bold truth-teller, brother in Christ, and friend. What he contributed to our culture, our country, and God’s Kingdom during his… pic.twitter.com/ByS2Nf6vg2

— Allen Jackson (@allenjacksonmin) September 10, 2025