Dear Parishioners, the Catechumens (non-baptized) and Candidates of the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) are on their final approach to receiving the Sacraments of full initiation this Easter Vigil. The little flock has prepared well. We have been meeting for over a year, going through the Catechism and answering questions. They are ready to be presented to the bishop for the Rite of Election (Enrollment of Names) this Sunday afternoon at the Cathedral. At the 10 am Mass this Sunday, we will be doing the Rite of Sending where our Catechumens and Candidates will be sent from our community. 

   The Rite of Sending is to acknowledge before our parish community that those being presented to the bishop have been properly formed and are making progress in their knowledge of the faith and Christian behavior. The rite offers the local community the opportunity to express its approval of the Catechumens and Candidates and send them forth to the celebration of Election assured of the parish’s care and support. After the Rite of Election, the Catechumens will be called the “Elect.” 

   Also, for the next three Sundays we will be celebrating the “Scrutinies” at the 10 am Mass. This is for the Elect to heal and strengthen their hearts so they can be healed from what is sinful and weak. The Scrutinies are ordered toward liberation from sin and the Devil and be strengthened in Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life of the Elect. The Scrutinies set forth to purify the minds and hearts, to fortify against temptations, and to convert intentions so that the Elect may cling more closely to Christ and desire to love God and do his will. 

   With this Cohort of the OCIA completing their process, we will be gathering the next group who would like to receive and complete the Sacrament of Initiation. The OCIA is open to all who need the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. The OCIA is open to anyone is not Catholic and would like to become a Catholic. It is also open to anyone who would like to learn more about their faith. If you or someone you know may be interested in the OCIA, please contact the office.