Thousands of Twin Cities religious leaders and other participants are expected to gather at the University of Minnesota Mariucci Hockey Arena tonight to celebrate the National Day of Prayer.

In addition to praying for the Twin Cities, the 7 p.m. event will feature worship led by band Leeland, singer and songwriter Jamie Grace, the United Twin Cities Worship Band and a message from evangelist Nick Hall. Church pastors and ministry officials from institutions across the metro will lead participants in prayer.

All are welcome to attend the free event or watch online stream at unitendop.com. Last year, 4,000 people were involved through attending and live streaming online, according to a released statement about the event.

Started in 1952 by joint resolution of the United States Congress, the National Day of Prayer is an annual observance on the first Thursday of May. Organizers say its purpose is to communicate the need for personal repentance and prayer while offering support for the nation's leaders.

For more information, visit www.NationalDayofPrayer.org.