Candlelight Vigil for Charlie Kirk Held at Bartow County Courthouse

On Saturday, September 20, the community of Cartersville gathered on the steps of the Bartow County Courthouse for a moving Candlelight Vigil honoring Charlie Kirk. Friends, families, church leaders, and elected officials came together under the evening sky, united in prayer, worship, and a commitment to the values Kirk has championed.

An Evening of Worship and Reflection

The vigil began with Christian music and congregational singing, setting a reverent tone and reminding all present of the hope found in Christ. Fred Kittle offered brief remarks about Charlie Kirk before introducing Louis DeBroux, who guided the evening and kept the program flowing. DeBroux also expressed gratitude to Paul Porter for providing the sound system and to Jeremy Matthews for presenting the American flag—visible reminders of unity and respect.

Heartfelt Music and Prayer

The program featured a variety of powerful moments. Mr. James Satterfield moved the crowd with his fiddle rendition of Amazing Grace, encouraging everyone to sing along and join their voices in one of the most beloved hymns of faith.

Following this, Pastor Kyle Walker of Cartersville First Baptist Church led an opening prayer and spoke words of encouragement over the community, pointing hearts back to God’s sustaining presence.

Another deeply moving highlight came when Pastor K. Ray Looney sang Daystar. His heartfelt delivery of the beloved song resonated across the courthouse lawn, reminding everyone present that Christ is the true light who guides His people through every season of life. The music created a sacred moment of reflection that drew the crowd even closer together in worship.

Voices of Encouragement

In addition to music and prayer, community leaders stepped forward to speak words of encouragement. Melanie Collier, Representative Matthew Gambill, Senator Ed Setzler, and Senator Chuck Hufstetler each shared thoughtful remarks, emphasizing the importance of faith, family, and standing strong for biblical truth. Their words underscored the heart of the gathering—that honoring Charlie Kirk also meant recommitting to the values he has defended.

A Closing of Light and Prayer

As night fell and the courthouse lawn glowed with candlelight, Pastor Barry Garland led the final portion of the vigil. He combined music, prayer, and reflection before guiding the candle lighting ceremony, where each flame symbolized the light of Christ shining in a dark world. Pastor Garland closed the evening with prayer and an altar call, inviting those present to respond personally to God’s call on their lives.

A Community United

The vigil was more than a single evening—it was a testament to the strength of faith and the power of unity. Cartersville came together to honor Charlie Kirk, but also to reaffirm their shared hope in Christ and their dedication to standing boldly for truth.

The glow of candles, the sound of worship songs like Daystar and Amazing Grace, and the heartfelt messages of leaders and pastors left a lasting imprint. For many, it was a defining night of encouragement, prayer, and community that will not be soon forgotten.