Normally it’s a room filled with hustle and bustle, of young dancers chattering as they change into their costumes for their next recital number.  A place where groups of vocalists polish their harmonies for an upcoming musical fundraiser, and youngsters learn choreography for the next community theater production.

On Monday night, those entering the Ritz Theatre’s Community Room focused on quiet contemplation and prayerful attitudes as they prepared for Tuesday’s hotly contested president election during a special prayer vigil.

Members of the Butler County Ministerial Association (BCMA) including its president, Allen Stephenson  stood outside the Ritz doors to welcome attendees. Chase Clower shared non-partisan election prayer guides, titled “Inviting God Into the Process” with each person.

Educators, business people, retirees, mothers and their children—people of all ages, church affiliations and from all walks of life came and went during the event’s three-hour span.  Those participating were encouraged to focus their prayers on seven major areas: the nation and its issues, the election process itself, candidates and leaders, the church, media, spiritual welfare and revival.

Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce Director Francine Wasden was one of those who came to pray. Wasden also spoke briefly to those assembled and asked for the Chamber and its member businesses be remembered in their prayers.

“We want to remember our local leaders, too, when we pray. We have a lot of small businesses who are part of our Chamber and sometimes, it is a real struggle for them. So please keep them in your prayers, too,” said Wasden, who joined hands with a fellow participant as she prayed for Wasden’s requests.

Those in attendance were asked to pray for courage, wisdom, compassion, spiritual discernment and strength for leaders at every level as well as for themselves.

“I was very pleased with the turnout,” said Stephenson.

“I think that our citizens realize the importance of this election and they can clearly see the need for prayer. We in the ministerial Association were honored to help people do what Christ instructed us to do.”