An estimated 3,000 people attended one of three Rite of Election liturgies at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception held 10:30 a.m. March 8, and 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. March 9.
Catechumens (those who have not been baptized) and candidates (those baptized in another church), who are participating in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) classes in the Denver Archdiocese to become full members of the Catholic Church, attended the liturgies with sponsors, catechists, family and friends. The names of those seeking the sacraments of initiation—baptism, confirmation and Eucharist—were called forward to be recognized by the Church community, in the presence of Archbishop Samuel Aquila, as they move into the final period of preparation.
New this year, a Rite of Election liturgy will also be held to recognize catechumens and candidates on the Western Slope at 10:30 a.m. March 23 at St. Clare of Assisi at 31622 U.S. Highway 6 in Edwards.
In a future series, the Denver Catholic Register will follow Cathedral Basilica catechumen, Kelly Seeman, 33, during Lent as she journeys through the last 40 days before entering the Church at the Easter vigil at the cathedral 8 p.m. April 19.
