The Rite of Election closes the Period of the Catechumenate. This rite normally coincides with the 1st Sunday of Lent. At this rite, upon the testimony of sponsors and catechists and the catechumens’ affirmation of their intention to join the Church, the Church makes its “election” of these catechumens to receive the Sacraments of Initiation. In the presence of the bishop (or his delegate), they inscribe their names in the Book of the Elect at the cathedral as a pledge of fidelity. Now the catechumens are called “the elect” or “the illuminandi” (“those who will be enlightened”). They now begin a Period of Purification and Enlightenment—the final, intense preparation for the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation. On the Sundays in Lent, three scrutinies (rites for self-searching and repentance) and the presentations of the Creed and Lord’s Prayer take place. This period concludes with the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation of the Easter Vigil.

Candidates for Formal Acceptance into the Church
at the Easter Vigil
Front Row left to right: Russell Parolisi III (Baptism, Confirmation, First Communion), Kimberly Parolisi (Confirmation, First Communion), Jamie Manzo (Confirmation, First Communion), Filbert (Jianfeng) Hua (Baptism, Confirmation, First Communion), Jessica McCormack (Confirmation, First Communion)
Back Row left to right: Russell Parolisi, Jr. (special blessing), Jeffrey Freyer (Confirmation, First Communion)
Not Pictured: Hope Pelland (Baptism, Confirmation, First Communion), Rebecca Rios (Confirmation, First Communion)