The First Sunday in Lent saw our RCIA 2021 Catechumens and Candidates journey to St Patrick’s Cathedral for their names to be entered into the Book of the Elect. The wearing of masks did nothing to hide the sense of wonder and awe in the activity of God’s Spirit working amongst us. Mark Lockwood (Candidate) and Gerrad Harper (Catechumen) were blessed by a ‘personal encounter’ with the leader of our Melbourne Church, Archbishop Comensoli. When asked about their experience, Mark replied, “I have a real sense of ‘coming home’ and feel privileged to partake in such an ancient rite.” The effect of the sunshine shining through the leadlight stained glass of the cathedral, captured the attention of Gerrad and has stayed with him ‘as a day that will stay with him’. Sonya Nwokediuko, our other Candidate, was unable to join us but was remembered throughout the Rite as Mark placed her scroll along with his, to the Archbishop.
This Sunday will see our newly RCIA Elect presented with the Creed of our Catholic Church. They now enter the period of the scrutinies, which are the “rites for self-searching and repentance and have above all a spiritual purpose”. During these final weeks of Lent –the Scrutiny period –is celebrated in order to deliver the elect from the power of sin and to protect them against temptation, and to give them strength in Christ. Let us pray that all those who seek to know Christ will see his goodness and love reflected in each of us as we too, reflect on our own Lenten pilgrimage.