PROVIDENCE — On March 4, the first Sunday of Lent, the Diocese of Providence celebrated at the Cathedral of SS. Peter and Paul the Rite of Election and the Call to Continuing Conversion. In the Rite of Election, on the basis of testimony of sponsors and catechists, and on the reaffirmation of those candidates seeking to become initiated into the Catholic Church in order to receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and holy Eucharist, the catechumens enroll their names in the Book of the Elect as a pledge of their fidelity to God.
In the Call to Continuing Conversion, candidates preparing to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church by receiving the sacrament of confirmation and be admitted to the Eucharist, share their declared fidelity to the Church.
The candidates will receive the sacraments across the diocese during the Easter Vigil.
"Much has been asked of you and your sponsors in this process; much, however, has been given to you by God," said Auxiliary Bishop Robert C. Evans in his homily.
"Bring your gifts to the Lord, that is, your time, talent and treasure in order that He may bless you and work with and through you. By choosing to step forward and embrace the fullness of the faith and the splendor of the truth, you are committing yourselves to Him Who is the Way, the Truth and the Life."
