Some 60 representatives from Chisholm, Denman, Forster, Morisset, Newcastle, Raymond Terrace and Toronto rejoiced with the Catechumens and Candidates preparing for Baptism and/or full communion in the Catholic Church.

The Rite of Election closes the Period of the Catechumenate. This rite normally coincides with the first 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. 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 next five Sundays of 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 at the Easter Vigil.

Member of the Diocesan RCIA Team, Daphne Peterson, said, “The liturgy was very moving and the choir was superb. The diocesan RCIA group provided a delicious afternoon tea. Bishop Bill, joined us for a cuppa and chat in the Davis Courtyard. Everyone left on a ‘high’!” 

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