Preston - The intersection of routes 2A and 117 has a different look this weekend.

The historic chain fence that runs along the front lawn and walkway of St. James Episcopal Church is thick with white ribbons, 2,996 of them. The ribbons represent those killed during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The doors to the church sanctuary will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today for silent prayer or reflection.

Inside the sanctuary, images of Sept. 11 are attached to a large cross set before a small table. On the table, two tall candles burn. One image shows the intact World Trade Center gleaming in the sunlight. Another shows the buildings on fire. A third shows the explosion of smoke and dust as the buildings collapsed.

There is a photo of the Pentagon on fire and one of a crashed plane in a field in Pennsylvania. There are photos and illustrations of firefighters, flags and an eagle.

Father Ron Kolanowski, vicar at St. James, said the memorial was created by parishioners, and the church staff assembled the photos displayed on the cross.

"We had this historic chain, and this nice location that is very visible," he said. "It's an easy way to make a meaningful memorial."

St. James will hold two memorial services Sunday, at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Local officials and civic organizations have been invited to participate. A Boy Scout troop will serve as the color guard. The services are open to the public.

"It's simple, but it works," Kolanowski said.

c.bessette@theday.com