(Radio Iowa) – The legacy of conservative activist Charlie Kirk was at the center of conversation at this weekend’s Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition gathering in Des Moines. U-S Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the former South Dakota governor, urged the crowd of evangelical Christians to take up the mantle from Kirk and spread light and hope.

Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, another featured speaker at Saturday night’s event, met Kirk 13 years ago when Kirk was raising money to start the Turning Point U-S-A organization. Moreno says Kirk would hope his death is a quite literal turning point for the country.

from national Faith and Freedom Coalition founder Ralph Reed. The event began with a moment of silence for Kirk and his family then Bernie Hayes, chairman of the Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition, led the crowd in prayer.

Iowa Congresswoman Ashley Hinson of Marion told the crowd her 14-year-old son has been a fan of Kirk and has been absolutely devastated by Kirk’s death.

There are about two dozen Turning Point U-S-A chapters and activism hubs in Iowa at high schools and colleges.