The National Day of Prayer returned Thursday to Katy, with people of all denominations welcomed for prayer and reflection.

In Katy, services began Thursday evening at the Grace Fellowship Worship Center, 2655 S. Mason Road. The service becomes known as the Fire on the Altar, which runs for 50 consecutive hours, through Saturday.

“Some people come in for 10 minutes, some for two hours,” Stephanie Leggett, Grace Community Church community relations director, said. “You come and go as your schedule permits.”

Leggett said the National Day of Prayer has been happening in Katy for over 20 years.

“We have over 50-plus churches, and pastors from all over to stand together and pray for our nation,” Leggett said. “It is just a joy to see the community keeps coming together.”

Leggett said all faiths were welcome at the event.

“There are denominational differences, and belief differences, but if we can stand together, that’s unity,” Leggett said. “Everyone is 100% welcome. You’ll hear a lot about Jesus and there’s a cross, but everybody is welcome.”

Leggett said the extended, uninterrupted prayer time provides worshipers a chance to seek the presence of God. In her own case, she said, she comes away feeling refreshed.

“We don’t really have the opportunity to do that at church, because you have a limited amount of time,” Leggett said. “It’s an opportunity to sit down, open your Bible or prayer journal, pray and engage in the worship going on. Time stands still in that place of prayer.”

For more information, visit the website katyprays.org.