Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue has led a solemn crowd of several hundred people in a prayer for rain on his drought-stricken state.
In a ceremony outside the state Capitol, Perdue said the goal was "to very reverently and respectfully pray up a storm."
Georgia and its neighboring states are caught in an epic drought that threatens public water supplies. Perdue has ordered water restrictions and appealed to President Bush.
Perdue told the crowd, "It's time to appeal to Him who can and will make a difference."
The hourlong event was billed as an interfaith ceremony, but only three Protestant ministers joined Perdue, who is a Baptist. About 20 demonstrators protested nearby.
