This year we have the joy of journeying alongside a number of adults in our RCIA programme who are taking the big step to either be baptised as a Catholic (either from another Christian group or no religion at all) or be Confirmed as adults at the Easter Vigil Mass on 16th April.
Over the last few months, these individuals—known as Catechumens (not yet Catholics) and Candidates (Catholics but not Confirmed)—were introduced to many aspects of the Catholic faith. They will now spend the weeks of Lent preparing prayerfully for the Easter Vigil, by reflecting on the Word of God—steps known as the Scrutinies. The word scrutinise means to “examine or observe with great care”. That is exactly what is being done here, as each person takes time to reflect more deeply on the mystery of God’s love, through the proclamation of his Word.
This year, the group will meet to reflect on the key Gospel readings of Lent, before gathering for the three Scrutinies Masses, celebrated by Fr Antonio.
These masses will be celebrated at 8.30pm on three consecutive Tuesdays:
Tuesday 15 March, Tuesday 22 March & Tuesday 29th March
Any parishioner who wishes to attend the Masses to support the Catechumens and Candidates is most welcome to do so. We know the Catechumens and Candidates gain much from meeting other parishioners, and being made to feel increasingly part of our parish family.
In this way, we will all benefit from readying ourselves for the coming of Jesus at Easter.
