NATCHEZ — In a time of uncertainty, area religious leaders are calling for locals to pray as one Thursday at noon.

The 67th annual observance of the National Day of Prayer will be then, and groups in both Vidalia and Natchez will gather to pray for the nation.

In Natchez, the group will gather on the lawn of Natchez City Hall. The Rev. David O’Connor, pastor of St. Mary Basilica, said several area ministers will lead prayers for community leaders, teachers and educators. Other ministers will pray for local churches, medical personnel and services and for individuals and families.

The service will last approximately 45 minutes, he said.

“I just want to encourage people — if they can fit it into their schedule — to come and join us,” O’Connor said.

“In the lives of most people, they realize there is a need for prayer, and for our nation as a whole.”

In Vidalia, the service will also be at noon at Vidalia City Hall.

“We are looking at praying as a community for God to guide our officials and bless our schools,” said the Rev. Troy Thomas, who will lead the service. “There will be songs sung and scriptures read, and hopefully we will see an impact in our community.

Thomas said the service will last approximately 40 minutes.