Purification and Enlightenment

Once the Catechumen has discerned with the parish their readiness for baptism they enter into the period of Purification and Enlightenment through the Rite of Election. They are thereafter called the Elect. This period is the time immediately preceding the Elects’ initiation, usually the Lenten season culminating at the celebration of the Rites of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and First Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night. 

This period is a time of deep reflection and is intensely centered on conversion. It is marked by formal presentations from the Church, three scrutinies and other rites of immediate preparation on Holy Saturday morning.