Two New St. Helena Elect

The Rite of Election was held last Sunday, March 1 at 2PM in St. Patrick's Cathedral, and two catechumens from St. Helena's were there along with catechumens from throughout the diocese. Miguel Reyes and Kenneth Adams inscribed their names in the Book of the Elect. They were accompanied by Rev. Richard Wyzykiewicz, Sch.P. and Tamara Adams. The Rite of Election closes the Period of the Catechumenate. This rite normally takes place on the First Sunday in 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 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.