ATLANTA--"Celebrate Faith & Arts Atlanta," an effort of 20 urban church congregations along Olympic pedestrian corridors, plans to welcome the world to Atlanta with hundreds of free cultural events and hospitality centers.

Most are scheduled for the 17 days of the 1996 Olympic Games, July 19 to Aug. 4. A few events will also be scheduled during the Paralympics, Aug. 16 to 25. The Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and Sacred Heart Church in Atlanta are among participating congregations.

Cultural events will range from choir concerts to storytelling and street theater. Faith-inspired artists and groups willing to donate performances can obtain an application by calling (404) 873-3105. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 31. Artists chosen for the program will be notified by Feb. 16.

The hospitality portion of the plan calls for congregations to distribute free water to visitors and to donate beverages, food and other supplies. Any fees charged for refreshments will be modest and only to cover costs, not to raise funds.

A general event directory with congregation profiles, maps and emergency information will be available through participating congregations and downtown business locations by May.

Co-sponsors of the program include The Salvation Army, Quest Atlanta '96 and the Jewish Federation.

Participating congregations in addition to the two Catholic congregations are: All Saints Episcopal Church, Big Bethel AME Church, Central Presbyterian Church, Central United Methodist Church, Ebenezer Baptist Church, First Church of Christ Scientist, First United Methodist Church of Atlanta, First Presbyterian Church Atlanta, North Avenue Presbyterian Church, Peachtree Christian Church, Redeemer Lutheran Church, Saint Luke's Episcopal Church, Saint Mark United Methodist Church, The Temple, Tenth Street United Methodist Church, Trinity United Methodist Church and Wheat Street Baptist Church.