Rite of Election

Photos.

In the Catholic Church, people who are preparing to enter the Church often do so at the Easter Vigil , when they receive the Easter sacraments: baptism, first communion, and confirmation. Those previously baptized make a profession of faith and celebrate first communion and confirmation.

The first big formal step in the process of becoming Catholic at the Easter Vigil is the "rite of election". This ceremony is usually celebrated at the Cathedral of the diocese on the First Sunday of Lent, during which catechumens (an old name restored to general usage by Vatican II) declare their desire for baptism. Previously baptized Christians indicate their desire for full communion with the Catholic Church.

I'm always amazed at the number of people enrolled in RCIA classes wherever we travel. St. Pete Beach is no exception, and yesterday we witnessed the "sending" of this year's RCIA class to the "rite of election" at St. Jude Cathedral in St. Petersburg. The ceremony was simple. The catechumens were accompanied by their godparents or sponsors and they received a simple cross around their necks. The congregation applauded. Everyone smiled. I wondered whether the mixed group of future Catholics would find what they are looking for in the Catholic Church.

The diocesan Office of Communications published photos right away. The ceremony looks like a mix of formality, with the bishop in full regalia, and informality, with some participants in jeans. I guess the Catholic Church is flexible enough for plenty of diversity. I sure hope so.