The Office for the Catechumenate
 

The Rite of Election and the Call to Continuing Conversion

Based on testimony of godparents and catechists, and the Catechumens' reaffirmation, the Church declares their state of readiness to enter the final period in their faith journey. The Catechumens now called the "Elect" are strengthened to take part in the sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil.

This rite marks the close of the Catechumenate. The celebration is presided over by the Bishop. The primary time for the Rite to be celebrated is on the first Sunday in Lent.

The Bishop, in the name of the community, declares approval of the Candidates. During the celebration, each candidate publicly signs their name in the Book of the Elect, signifying their readiness to complete their faith journey of conversion.

The "Elect" and Candidates now enter into the Period of Purification and Enlightenment to intensify their preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation.

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