Archive for the ‘Rite of Election’ Category

A Catechumen’s Prayer Before the Rite of Election Creator God, even before I was born, you called me and named me. Even before I understood, you sought and summoned me. All this time, you have been choosing me, Lord, in … Continue reading →

In our Diocese of San Jose, we have dancing books for the Rite of Election. Now hold on before you start groaning as you imagine young waifs in tights and leotards flitting about the altar. Our Scriptural tradition has many … Continue reading →

Keep your eyes open when you attend the Rite of Election. Notice what happens. Here are ten questions (in no particular order) to help you sharpen your observations. 1. Did each catechumen have a godparent? They should. The godparents have … Continue reading →

How do you know if the catechumens are ready for the rite of election? Who decides? What is the process for discerning their readiness? Take a look at Sr. Miriam Malone’s invitation to a one-hour, live training workshop to answer … Continue reading →

Many have interpreted the signing of the Book of the Elect to be a sign of commitment and discipleship. This is certainly true, and when seen in this light, it would seem appropriate for both catechumens (the unbaptized) and candidates … Continue reading →

A number of years ago, I wrote a little book about election (On the Rite of Election, LTP, 1994) for the Forum Essays series. I felt that divine election was an important concept to grapple with, and that—for a variety … Continue reading →

Rehearsal outline: Sending of the Catechumens for Election RCIA 106-117 6:30 Before everyone arrives Turn on lights and put out microphones. Put stand or table for the Book of the Elect in place. Place the book and a substantial pen … Continue reading →

A central element in the Rite of Election is the enrollment of names. This part of the rite is so important it is given equal billing in the title: “The second step in Christian initiation is the liturgical rite called … Continue reading →

The Rite of Election is one of those “hinge” rites in the RCIA because it marks the transition from one period to the next for a person becoming baptized. But most people in your church won’t ever see a Rite … Continue reading →

The testimonies during the Rite of Election can be one of the most moving moments in the catechumenate process. Let’s look at how they happen. How does the testimony happen in the election rite? In the Rite of Election, the … Continue reading →