Bishop Welcomes Catechumens, Candidates

Bishop Charles C. Thompson celebrated the RCIA Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion March 9 at St. Benedict Cathedral in Evansville. As he opened the ceremony, Bishop Thompson explained the significance of the event and of the Lenten season.

“God continually calls his people back to a life lived fully with him through his Son Jesus Christ,” he said. “We gather here today first of all to continue our thanks and praise of God at the start of this Lenten season, and to also recognize and affirm those in our midst who are looking to respond to the longing for God found deep in their own hearts. May our prayers to almighty God today and throughout Lent help bring the good work that He has begun in them to fulfillment.”

Bishop Thompson told more than 150 Catechumens and Candidates from across the diocese that the Catholic Church welcomes and accepts them lovingly – as they are.

“We receive you as you are,” he said. “We’re not asking you to be perfect. We celebrate who and what we are, but are always striving to do more to embrace our faith.”

He noted that the event – and the entire RCIA process – is a profound experience for everyone involved. “It is not just profound for you,” he noted, “but also for your sponsors, the RCIA team, your pastors and parishioners. It is part of our lifelong process of conversion. It enriches the entire Church and reminds us of the gift of our faith.

“Our wealth,” he said, “comes as sons and daughters of God, and brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ.”

He noted that, over the past year, Pope Francis has reminded the world of the need for individuals to develop a personal relationship with Christ. “It is through that personal encounter that we know the beauty of salvation,” he said. “We are rich because of the mercy and love of God, through Jesus Christ, His Son.”

Parishes from across the diocese first presented their Catechumens – those who will be baptized and confirmed, and receive the Eucharist during the Easter Vigil. Their godparents joined them in the presentation.

Parishes then presented their Candidates – those who will be confirmed and receive the Eucharist during the Easter Vigil. Their sponsor joined them in the presentation.