“You did not choose me, no I chose you”
183 candidates from 52 parishes gathered at St Chads Cathedral today to make a significant step towards their reception into the Catholic Church.
The Rite of Election marks the beginning of the final period of preparation for the reception of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. Candidates are now encouraged to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with great generosity.
As a pledge of their fidelity and sign of their conversion of mind and heart, the candidates allowed their names to be inscribed in the book of those chosen and they publicly expressed their resolve and faith.
The choir, like last year, was a gathering of singers from around the diocese to mark this very special occasion.
Archbishop Bernard Longley welcomed those who have had the call to embrace the mission of Jesus, the mission of God’s Kingdom.
Deacon Owen Gresty said of the candidates: “They have found strength in God’s grace and support in our community’s prayers and example.
“These, our catechumens, request to be baptized and together with the candidates, ask that they be allowed to receive the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist at Easter.”
His Grace, Archbishop Bernard Longley asked them to respond aloud to the question: “Do you wish to enter fully into the life of the Church through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist?”
The candidates then inscribed their names in the Book of the Elect to signify that they have heard God call their name and wish to respond to his call. They came up to the front of the Cathedral to be presented to the Archbishop and to Bishops David McGough and Robert Byrne by their priests.
We pray that these elect may find joy in daily prayer and grow ever closer to you.
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