Brooklyn, N.Y., Feb. 23, 2012 – A total of 949 catechumens and candidates will be present at Christ the King Regional High School, 6802 Metropolitan Avenue, Middle Village, on Sunday, Feb. 26th, for this year’s Rite of Election. It will take place in two sessions, given the great number of attendees. The first will be at 2 p.m. and the second at 4:30 p.m.

During this rite, the Catholic Church acknowledges that one enters the universal faith community of the Church in addition to their particular parish.
The Rite of Election is part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.), and marks the final stage of preparation for those preparing to join the Church at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday. This year, that date is April 7th.
“What makes this day so wonderful is that it is a sign of growth in the Church,” Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio said. “I believe it is one of the most festive days we celebrate in the Diocese of Brooklyn.”
Participants give testimony to their readiness and witness their acceptance of God’s call. The ceremony will be celebrated for 409 catechumens entering the Church through the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. The Book of the Elect, composed of the signed scrolls of the catechumens, will be presented to Bishop DiMarzio at the Rite of Election ceremony.
The ceremony will also recognize 49 candidates who will enter into full communion with the Church by a Profession of Faith; they have been baptized in another Christian tradition whose baptism will be recognized by the Catholic Church.
An additional 491 candidates who will be completing their initiation into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil will also be present. Pastors, parish catechumenate teams, godparents, and sponsors will accompany the catechumens and candidates.