Cardinal Vincent, Bishops John and Nicholas, and the Episcopal Vicars of the Diocese welcomed 558 individuals from 108 parishes to the Rite of Election at the Cathedral over the weekend of 21 and 22 February.
The Rite of Election is a key milestone in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) for those who are preparing to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church at Easter. 236 catechumens are looking forward to being baptised and then joining 322 candidates to complete the Sacraments of Initiation by being confirmed and receiving First Holy Communion.
In his homily Cardinal Vincent called the gathering ‘a great occasion, full of joy and hope.’
He went on to rejoice with those present, saying, ‘today we are witnesses to the generous and gracious love of God, drawing us to himself so that we might be his People, his Church. Faith is a wonderful gift and each one of us rejoices today in this great gift.’
Addressing the catechumens, candidates, and all who from the parishes who have accompanied them on this journey, the Cardinal said: ‘Today I welcome you all not simply as individuals, but also as belonging to each other, as members of one body, the Church. You come because of what you have learned of the visible Body of Christ in your parishes, in this Catholic Church.’
During the Rite which followed the homily, catechumens and candidates, supported by their godparents and sponsors, made a public commitment to continue to conform themselves to Christ as they prepare to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church at Easter.
The full text of Cardinal Vincent's homily can be found here.
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