The Archdiocese of Cincinnati celebrated the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion in Cincinnati and Dayton on March 10 with those who will be welcomed into the Catholic faith at Easter. Father Jan Schmidt presided at the celebrations at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Chains, with Bishop Joseph R. Binzer presiding at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Parish in Dayton.

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

Celebrated annually in churches and cathedrals worldwide on the first Sunday of Lent, the Rite of Election formally acknowledges the readiness of catechumens preparing to receive the sacraments of initiation — baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist — at the Easter Vigil.

The term “election” refers to God choosing the catechumens for membership in Christ’s Body. During this public celebration, the Church judges their readiness and affirms their intention to advance toward receiving the Easter sacraments.

Please keep the catechumens in your prayers as they prepare for Easter Vigil and full reception into the Church.