University Hospital employees gather for a prayer service in front of the hospital Friday afternoon. Many area churches held services at noon. TODD BENNETT/STAFF

The cool, dark recesses of the nearly 200-year-old church tempered the bright colors - a gesture of solidarity with the somber faithful.

The service, the second of three Friday at First Presbyterian, coincided with similar events across the United States, including one at the National Cathedral in Washington.

There President Bush offered his prayers for the victims of Tuesday's terrorist attack at the Pentagon and the World Trade Center in New York.

Like the attacks themselves, such a service was unimaginable a few days ago to almost all of the 250 to 275 people gathered at the Augusta church.

''It is so difficult for us to understand,'' said Al Lovingood of Augusta.

Yvonne Mayes (left) pins a red, white and blue ribbon to Teresa Mackie's hospital gown during the prayer service at University Hospital. TODD BENNETT/STAFF

Before the attacks, Dr. Julian Hutchins, an emergency room physician, and his wife, Lane, had expected to land at Boston's Logan International Airport on Friday to take in some sightseeing and a conference.

Logan was the same airport where terrorists hijacked planes leading up to Tuesday's attacks.

Instead the Augusta doctor called New York to offer his help this week in rescue efforts, he said. ''I did volunteer, but they have more than they need.''

Mrs. Hutchins said she was not fearful for herself, but concerned for the nation.

''I think this really humbled us,'' she said. ''We need to go before the Lord and acknowledge that only he can give the wisdom and courage we are going to need - there is no other source.''

Prayer vigils

Today

A candlelight vigil will be at 10th and Riverwalk at 7:30 p.m. Those participating need to bring candles.

Sunday

A community prayer service is scheduled for Elim Baptist Church, 2357 Mount Auburn St., at 6 p.m.

A service of compassion will be at St. John United Methodist Church, 736 Green St., at 7 p.m. A special offering will be taken to benefit disaster relief.

Monday

A community patriotic service and prayer vigil will be at Buddy Bufford Stadium, Lincolnton, Ga., at 8 p.m. In the event of rain, the service will be moved to the high school auditorium. The event is co-sponsored by Lincolnton and Lincoln County officials and the Lincoln County Ministerial Association.

Reach Virginia Norton at (706) 823-3336 or vanorton@augustachronicle.com.