Family, friends, school teachers and students who knew and loved Julius 'Jules' Lunanga will gather tonight by the Murray River, where the teen went missing on Christmas Day.
A prayer vigil open to supporters will be held at the Noreuil Park boat ramp from 7pm to 9pm.
Pastor Kalwindi Mbele said the group would be "praying for the family" who were already mourning Jules' grandmother's death in November before the young man was feared drowned.
"It is heartbreaking for the family, so they need moral support and spiritual guidance," he said.
"We believe people will come because not everyone has been able to come to the house."
The Albury and Border Rescue Squad was back on the Murray searching yesterday, following efforts by Victoria Police.
NSW Police divers are hoped to provide assistance in coming days.
Albury police met with the Lunanga family yesterday morning for an update on the search for the 18-year-old's body.
"The family was expecting the body to be recovered in two or three days, but now the police have to continue the search for the body, so they're still awaiting the final result," Pastor Mbele said.
"The police asked the family to stay calm; if the body is recovered, they will call them."
A GoFundMe page launched by the faith leader to cover funeral costs and general living expenses for the family, now without their sole income earner, is past halfway to its goal of $30,000.
Paster Mbele said the family was very grateful and welcomed attendance from the Congolese and wider community tonight.
"I looked before going to the Murray River this morning and it has raised $12,000," he said.
"We are grateful for the community around here.
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"People have brought food and water, others are giving money online.
"Others are calling and saying, 'We are sorry for you during this time'.
"All those messages and calls are greatly appreciated."
