This ceremony takes place in preparation for the Rite of Election. It can be during Mass, in which case it is celebrated after the Homily, or on another occasion such as a closing liturgy of an RCIA session. Both priest and parishioners express their confidence that the candidates are ready to take part in the Rite of Election and be enrolled with others who wish to become members of the Church. It also provides a moment for candidates to reflect upon their choice to go forward to the reception of the Sacraments. The parish family promises to support them and encourages them to persevere in faith and prayer.

A catechist comes forward and addresses the priest.

Catechist: Father, the celebration of the Rite of Election for the whole diocese takes place at the beginning of Lent at the Cathedral so that those who are preparing to be members of the Church may receive the Sacraments in our parishes at Easter. I now present to you N. who asks to be formally enrolled as a candidate.

Priest:In the name of St. M.’s parish and the whole Church you have worked with others in helping N. prepare to be one with us in Christ through the Sacraments. Do you believe he/she understands the importance of what he/she is doing?

Catechist:I do.

Priest:Do you believe we should choose N. to be sent to be enrolled at the coming celebration on the First Sunday of Lent?

Catechist:I do.

Priest:Let N. come forward.

The candidate comes forward with his/her sponsor and stands facing the priest.

Priest:My dear friend, to be a member of the Church brings the responsibility of witnessing to Christ and trying to live every day as a true and loyal follower of the Lord. It is a challenge which will bring great joy and happiness. It is a call which needs faith, hope and charity. Therefore, I ask you: do you sincerely want to be a member of the Church?

Candidate:I do.

Priest:Faith is a most precious gift. Men and women have witnessed to their faith down through the centuries and countless millions have rejoiced in knowing the living God. Be confident in the Lord for he chooses you to be his servant, his witness and his friend. We affirm that you are chosen by this parish to receive the Sacraments and we shall present you as a worthy candidate. Use your talents and gifts for the good of all people and for the building up of the Church. Rejoice that your name is written in heaven.

Candidate:Thanks be to God.

[At this point the priest may anoint the candidate with the Oil of Catechumens. In which case he says the following prayer

Lord and God,

You know the secrets of our hearts

And reward us for the good we do.

Look kindly on the efforts and the progress of your servants.

Strengthen them on their way,

Increase their faith,

And accept their repentance.

Open to them your goodness and justice

And lead them to share in your sacraments on earth,

Until they finally enjoy your presence in heaven.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Facing the catechumen, the celebrant says

We anoint you with the oil of salvation

In the name of Christ our Saviour.

May he strengthen you with his power,

Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

Amen.

The celebrant anoints the catechumen on the hands.

See pages 42-47 and pages 52-54 of RCIA book for variations of the above.]

Priest:Now let us pray for our brother/sister.

The Congregation say:

God of light

enlighten the mind and heart of this disciple of your Son

pour out your blessing upon him/her

May he/she know in his/her heart that you have chosen him/her

and let his/her gifts shine forth for all to see.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle

Celebration

of

Sending Forth a Candidate

for

The Rite of Election