Photos: Mission Viejo Prayer Day Draws 600

From Los Alisos to Marguerite Parkway, the faithful flocked to the Thursday night for an evening of prayer.

More than 20 Christian churches participated in the day, which drew about 600 people.

It was the first of its kind for Mission Viejo, which has , but never a large evening gathering.

Check out photos and video from the prayer event above.

"Mark this date, tonight Pastor Mike Maiolo just made a new city tradition!" said City Councilman Dave Leckness, who was there along with Councilwoman Rhonda Reardon and Councilwoman Trish Kelley.

Maiolo, pastor of Mission Viejo Christian Church, led the event. He was accompanied by 23 other pastors who took turns asking God to bless the city, the nation, and the people gathered at the event.

"It's more than just a civic center. God is here tonight," Maiolo said.

Tim Robbins of Aliso Viejo attended the event with his four-year-old daughter. The congregant said the event sent a message about the importance of prayer.

"People don't really understand the power of prayer," he said.

Maiolo led an altar call, and Kelley was one of the first to respond, kneeling before the stage. She was soon joined by about a dozen others, including Leckness.