Today is the 57th annual National Day of Prayer, a mostly evangelical Christian event marked by indoor and outdoor gatherings at public and private sites. The theme this year is "Prayer! America's Strength and Shield," and it is based on the verse from Psalm 28:7 which states: "The Lord is my strength and shield; my heart trusts in Him and I am helped."

HOW DID THIS BECOME A NATIONAL EVENT? In 1952, a joint resolution by Congress, signed by President Truman, declared an annual national day of prayer. In 1988, it was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday of May. As he does each year, President Bush issued a proclamation.

WHO RUNS IT? The National Day of Prayer Task Force. Shirley Dobson, the wife of radio broadcaster and Focus on the Family founder, James Dobson, is the task force's chairwoman. Each state has its own coordinator.

WHAT ARE FOLKS PRAYING FOR? At most National Day of Prayer services, people pray for their elected leaders, the military, police and firefighters, schoolteachers, the church and the family. This year, people will also be praying for the next president.

WHO'S GOING? Anyone who wants to. This year, a Muslim advocacy group partnered with a Jewish online organization in calling for more inclusive day of prayer activities. Typically, evangelical Christians pray to Jesus during such events. Local coordinators must sign a statement of Christian faith.

HOW MANY SERVICES ARE THERE? Hundreds in almost every town across the state. There are eight in Raleigh.

HOW DO I FIND ONE NEAR ME? Go to www.ndptf.org, click on "find an event," and then locate North Carolina on the map.