Rite of Election

March 3, 2007

‘God has called us’

More than 1,700 welcomed during Rite of Election

By Herald staff

Parishioners make the sign of the cross as they participate in the Rite of Election in the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament Feb. 24.
Luis Gris Elizarrarrás/
Herald photo

More than 1,700 catechumens and candidates in the diocese were welcomed during four celebrations of the Rite of Election in Sacramento and Redding Feb. 24 and 25.

The Rite of Election, celebrated annually in cathedrals and churches around the world on the first Sunday of Lent, formally acknowledges the readiness of catechumens preparing to receive the sacraments of initiation — baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist — at the Easter Vigil. The rite marks the beginning of the period of purification and enlightenment.

Some 1,718 catechumens and candidates expressed their willingness to receive the sacraments of initiation and to accept the call to continuing conversion.

Sponsors and family members of the catechumens and candidates joined in the ceremonies, held at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Sacramento with Bishop William K. Weigand presiding, and at Our Lady of Mercy Church in Redding with Bishop Joseph J. Madera presiding.