Prayers of the faithful

The chapel at Marytown in Libertyville is open 24-hours-a-day, every day. Whether it's just a handful of folks or a full-house, there is always someone here.

It is a humbling place. From the flickering red candles, gilded angels and marble columns, it conveys a sense of something bigger - something outside of us.

It's Wednesday afternoon and about ten people are scattered among the pews. A young mom with three kids. A 20-something office worker, his work ID badge clipped to his belt. An old man. An older woman.

Some sit. Some kneel. Some fold their hands. Others bow their heads.

And what is on their minds? What do they bring to this silent sanctuary? What burdens? What worries? What joys?

God only knows.

But there, on a wooden podium, is a three-ringed binder. "Petitions and Thanksgiving," it says on the cover. Dozens of pages filled with handwritten pleadings for God's intervention. Cries for mercy. Shouts of thanksgiving. It gives us a glimpse of what weighs on the hearts of the faithful.

"Help my husband to realize that we can be happy together. Please make him want to stay married," asks a desperate wife.

"Oh, holy Jesus. Free Johnny from his pain." We can only guess what the affliction might be.

Prayers for health and relationships show up on almost every page. But some people believe that God is involved in all of life's details.

"Please. I need an account development director and secretary ASAP," asks a business executive. "Thank you for helping Notre Dame in football," writes a fan of the Fighting Irish.

One soul wrapped up a heavenly request with another that's right down to earth. "For all the souls in Purgatory, please and for McCain to be elected."

Parenting is never easy. "For my wayward son. Bring him back to Christ," a mom asked. "Dearest Lord. Have mercy on my daughter to help her fight cancer," pleads another.

Finally, something many can relate to in tough times. "Lord help us to clear our debt and be able to sell our house.