Rite of Election
14 March, 2023
Rite of Christian Initiation: Rite of Election
On Saturday 25 February 2023, Bishop Michael McCarthy presided at the Vigil Mass at St Joseph’s Cathedral during which the Rite of Election was celebrated. Fr Peter Tonti VG concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Michael. Peter Doherty, who is on pastoral placement from the Holy Spirit Seminary, assisted.
Catechumens from Bundaberg, Capricorn Coast, Emerald, Gladstone and Rockhampton participated in the Rite of Election. The Rite of Election (which usually coincides with the opening of Lent) marks the beginning of the period of final, more intense preparation for the catechumens in their lead up to their Christian initiation which will take place during the Easter Vigil Mass.
During the Rite, on the basis of the testimony of godparents and of the catechumens’ reaffirmation of their intention, Bishop Michael, on behalf of the Church, judged their state of readiness to advance towards the sacraments of initiation. This judgement is called “election” and as a sign of a pledge of fidelity, the catechumens (now called the Elect) were invited to inscribe their names in the book that lists those who have been chosen for initiation.
A number of candidates from Gladstone and Rockhampton who will complete their Christian initiation during the Easter Season were also formally received by Bishop Michael and prayerful support for their continuing journey in faith was offered.
At the end of Mass, the catechumens and candidates received a small gift from Bishop Michael as a reminder of this special milestone in their faith journey.
Afterwards, a number of the Elect and their supporters joined Bishop Michael for a shared meal at a local restaurant.
