On Sunday, March 9, the First Sunday of Lent, the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich was filled with faith and anticipation as catechumens from across the diocese gathered for the Rite of Election. This significant step in their journey toward full initiation into the Catholic Church marks their formal enrollment in the Book of the Elect, bringing them one step closer to the Easter sacraments.
With our diocese still awaiting the appointment of a new bishop, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Hartford presided over the celebration, offering words of encouragement to those preparing for baptism at the Easter Vigil. In his homily, he reflected on the Lenten journey and the call to deeper conversion, saying:
"We are gathered together in the name of Jesus Christ, confident that the words of Saint Paul are true: 'No one that believes in Him will be put to shame.' Christ, the eternal Word, is very near to us . . . We are simply responding to a gift, a call, a grace that moves us from above and from within. Our response, however, is far from complete. We need the journey of Lent to draw us ever nearer, to open our eyes. Lent is the season of eye-opening. It’s a season of renewed conversion, of repentance."
The readings of the day resonated deeply with the occasion. In Romans (10:8-13), Saint Paul teaches that salvation is for all who believe and profess faith in Jesus Christ. This truth was joyfully affirmed as the catechumens, accompanied by their sponsors and godparents, stood before the Church to declare their readiness to be received into full communion with the Body of Christ. The Gospel of Luke (4:1-13), recounting Jesus' time of trial in the desert, served as a reminder that just as Christ remained steadfast in the face of temptation, the elect too are called to trust in God’s word as they journey toward the waters of baptism.
As Lent continues, let us keep the elect in our prayers, that they may remain faithful to the call of the Lord and find strength in His word. May this sacred season prepare all of us to renew our own baptismal promises with hearts made new in Christ.
FCC Newsdesk
Photos by Catherine Hoffman
Video by The Communications Office
Bookmark the link below and visit it often as you observe the wonderful season of Lent!
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NorwichDiocese.org/Lent