Purification and Enlightenment

The period of purification and enlightenment is a time of final preparation for initiation. The period is one of prayer, fasting and reflection for both catechumens, now known as the Elect, and candidates. During this period, the Elect experience scrutinies and exorcisms, special rites which seal their break with evil in preparation for baptism.

Easter Fire!

The candidates who are ready and the Elect are initiated through the third and consummating rite of the RCIA process, the Sacraments of Initiation, at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday. On that night, when light drives out darkness, joyful sounds fill the silence, and we proclaim and renew our resurrection hope, the Elect culminate their long journey to initiation in the waters of Baptism -- then, with the candidates, the newly baptized are sealed with the oil of Confirmation and share the bread and wine of the Eucharist as full members of the Roman Catholic community.
     The initiation of an adult takes place when the individual is ready to receive Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist and to enter fully into the community of faith. While the Easter Vigil is the normal time for the celebration of these sacraments, they may be received at other times to respect the readiness of the candidate.