The catechumens are now approaching the third phase that begins with the Rite of Election on the First Sunday of Lent (February 13-14). After their names are enrolled during this ceremony, they will be called the Elect, and they have every right of the Catholic Church, such as a Catholic funeral.

Perhaps you will be present at the liturgies when the Elect enroll their names or celebrate the Scrutinies on the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sundays of Lent. Like everything else in liturgy, these rites are not spectator sports. We baptized Catholics also enter into the ceremonies. Will we intensify our dying with Christ in surrender to God?  Will we change our style of living in areas that require scrutiny?  Will we become a Sprit-filled community of deeply committed Christians who bear witness to our faith? Are we undergoing adult conversion? No matter how old we are or how many times we have received the sacraments, we are all in the process of formation. Our baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation were just milestones.  Now keep on going!!!!