People will meet in Gainesville Wednesday as part of a worldwide show of support for Israel.

Grassroots Friends of Israel, North Georgia 912 and Hall County Prayer Network hope people will come and "Stand with Israel in Gainesville." The groups are holding a peaceful prayer and support rally for Israel from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Poultry Park in downtown Gainesville.

There will be a major event in Jerusalem and thousands of similar events will be happening around the world on Wednesday.

"We hope we can awaken other hearts for Israel at a time when they need us for prayer and support," said Betsi Burgess, who helped to organize Gainesville's event.

Speakers will include Rabbi Scott Sekulow, WDUN talk show host Al Gainey, and David Weikel will deliver a message from U.S. Rep. Tom Graves who will be in Israel on Wednesday. A master of the shofar, a Hebrew instrument also called ram's horn, will play at the rally.

Burgess said the purpose is to create awareness "at a time when there are a lot of challenges to Israel."

Burgess said she has always felt a connection to the country and has watched Israel face many challenges over the years.

A business trip in 1975 cemented her commitment to help the Israeli people in any way she could.

"What I learned was that everyone in Israel, young children, teenagers, grandparents, is aware that at any moment your life can be threatened. But with that knowledge they live with a joyful, courageous spirit," Burgess said.

Many American's feel the same way as Burgess. At a recent Atlanta rally nearly 5,000 people were in attendance.

"There is a great heart for Israel among Americans and this is to let them know that they are not alone," Burgess said.

People from all over Georgia will be in attendance at the Gainesville event. Burgess said the rally is not meant to protest but to be a peaceful, prayerful event. The rally will be on the corner of Jesse Jewell and Broad Street at the busiest time of day in hopes more people will see and take an interest on their way home from work.

"This is an opportunity to learn more about their situation. It is an opportunity to meet with like-minded people, to get together with people in prayer," Burgess said.