Seven of our catechumens and candidates from this year’s RCIA programme took one big step closer to full communion with the Catholic Church when they attended the Rite of Election which took place at Westminster Cathedral on 5 March 2022. They were accompanied by some of our catechists and their sponsors.
Cardinal Vincent and Bishops John Sherrington, Nicholas Hudson and Paul McAleenan welcomed the great crowd at the cathedral. It was a joyful opportunity to pray, as a diocese, for God’s protection and care for those who seek to be more fully a part of the life of his Church. In his homily, Cardinal Vincent encouraged the catechumens and candidates to think on the questions, “Just why are you here this afternoon? What brings you to be here?”
He explained that, especially in the context of Lent, a large part of being a member of the Church is that it is within it we learn how to pray more consistently, richly and fully. This happens as we pray in and through Jesus, in the sacrifice of the Mass which is the highest form of prayer we have. We also pray through Mary and through being in communion with the saints. Cardinal Vincent encouraged those present to think on their Christian name, or the name of the saint they have chosen, and the example of their life.
The Cardinal reminded those present that in Lent we try and rein in our desires. When we deny ourselves those desires, we slowly realise what our deepest desire is: to be united with God. For those who have been summoned by the mystery of God, our response can only be prayer.
He also made a special plea to pray for an end to the assault, destruction and conflict in Ukraine.
After the homily, the deans called out the names of parishes in their deanery, and the Elect and the Candidates of each parish present came forward to be greeted by the Cardinal and the Bishops. At the end of the service, the Book of the Elect, containing the names of this year’s catechumens, who, at the ceremony, became the Elect, was placed in the Baptistery of Westminster Cathedral where all visitors can pray for them as they journey towards Easter when they will receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion.
Our catechumens and candidates found the Rite of Election to be both inspiring and exciting, seeing beauty in the universality of the Church. “The atmosphere was amazing!” said one. “It was unique – I had never experienced anything like it.” Another said, “I felt so loved. The bishops and the Cardinal made so much effort to talk to us and make contact with us. Cardinal Vincent had a great sense of humour!”
Our catechumens and candidates will be baptised and confirmed at the Easter Vigil on 16 April. Please continue to pray for them.