Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

RCIA – The Rite of Election

Loretta, Hansini & Lief

 1st Sunday Lent – February 22, 2015

Photos: Courtesy of Fe Hipolito

The Rite of Election celebration coincides with the opening of Lent, and marks the beginning of the period of final, more intense, preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) when the elect will be encouraged to follow Christ with greater generosity.

This second step in Christian initiation closes the period of the catechumenate proper (the lengthy period of formation of the catechumens’ minds and hearts).  Based on testimony of godparents and catechists and of the catechumens’ reaffirmation of their intention, the Church makes its “election”, that is, the choice and admission of catechumens who have dispositions making them fit to take part in the next major celebration, the Sacraments of Initiation.

The Rite of Election begins in the home parish of Blessed Sacrament where the catechumens ask that they be recognized for the progress they have made in their spiritual formation. They also ask to receive affirmation by the congregation’s blessings and prayers before they are sent forth to celebrate their election in Christ at Holy Rosary Cathedral by Archbishop Daniel J. Bohan.

Presider: Rev. Barry J. Anwender

Click/Tap the “small curved arrow” to Play Slideshow.

The Rite of Election occurs at Holy Rosary Cathedral by Archbishop Bohan because the acceptance made by the Local Church is founded on the election by God, in whose name the Church acts.  The catechumens inscribe their names in the Book of the Elect which lists those who have been chosen by Christ for initiation into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church at the forth coming Easter Vigil celebration in their home parish.

Presider: Most Rev. Daniel J. Bohan

Click/Tap the “small curved arrow” to Play Slideshow.

Click/Tap the “Book of The Elect” to enlarge.