March 17, 2011

ARCHDIOCESE — The Archdiocese of Cincinnati celebrated the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion on March 13 at special Masses in Cincinnati and Dayton.

Retired Archbishop Daniel E. Pilarczyk incenses the Book of the Elect at the Cathedral of St. Peter. (CT photo/Colleen Kelley)

More than 1,100 catechumens and candidates from parishes throughout the archdiocese came together for four liturgies, two celebrated at Immaculate Conception Parish in Dayton by Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr, and two at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Chains, at which retired Archbishop Daniel E. Pilarczyk presided.

The Rite of Election is celebrated with those seeking to receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil. The Call to Continuing Conversion is celebrated with those seeking reception into the full communion of the Catholic Church, as well as Catholics who are completing their initiation through the sacraments of confirmation and Eucharist.

The ceremonies mark the beginning of Lent, a season of the church year dedicated in a particular way to the final preparation period of these men, women and children seeking to celebrate the sacraments of initiation at Easter.

The term “election” refers to the fact that God has chosen these catechumens for membership. During this public celebration, the church judges their readiness and affirms their intention to advance toward the Easter sacraments.

Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr performs the same action at Immaculate Conception Parish in Dayton. (CT photo/Jeff Unroe)

Candidate Joseph Michael Van Niman takes part in the ceremony at the cathedral. (CT photo/Colleen Kelley)

Eliza Santos stands in front of her sponsor, Marcie Gates, as they wait for Archbishop Schnurr to welcome them at the altar. Both are from Holy Angels Parish in Sidney. (CT photo/Jeff Unroe)