Scores of youngsters were among a packed congregation at Dornoch Cathedral yesterday as special prayers were said for a missing you chef.
Lachlan Simpson vanished more than a week ago after a country show in Sutherland.
Land and sea searches for the 22-year-old continued over the weekend in and around Dornoch.
Almost 60 volunteers joined police and coastguard personnel on Saturday while police maintained the vigil yesterday.
Much of the focus in the latest efforts was around an area known locally as The Links.
Alongside volunteers, support was provided by the British Red Cross, HM Coastguard land-based search and rescue, the Dornoch inshore lifeboat and the Dundonell Mountain Rescue Team.
Local police were supported by colleagues from Moray and Aberdeenshire, special constables and specialist search officers.
Operational support division also provided resources, including the air support unit and police dog unit.
Mr Simpson disappeared after attending a Sutherland county show dance at The Links at about 1.30am on Sunday, July 26.
Minister the Rev Susan Brown, told parishioners that “the fun surrounding show day last Saturday quickly dissolved” when people realised Lachlan was missing.
She added: “The music, craic and laughter of the marquee dance was forgotten in the fog of worry over where Lachlan had gone and of what could have happened to him.”
She said that for many youngsters the past week may have been their first experience that they are not invincible and how harsh, unfair and, perhaps, how downright cruel life can be.
Local police area commander Chief Inspector Iain MacLelland yesterday praised the community for helping in the search.
He said: “It goes without saying that we remain concerned for Lachlan’s welfare.
“I would stress that this is still a missing person inquiry and investigations remain ongoing.
“We have carried out detailed searches of the areas where Lachlan was last seen, including coastline and inland areas surrounding Dornoch.
“I would continue to urge members of the public who have any information, no matter how small it may seem, to contact us.”
Mr Simpson’s family also issued a statement offering their thanks to local people.
They said they had been “overwhelmed” by the support from the local community and those who had travelled long distances to help in the search.
They said: Knowing so many people care about Lachlan and are willing to help is a great comfort to us. We just want Lachlan to be safe.”
Relatives also made a direct plea to Mr Simpson to make contact.