The Rite of Election Mass was held at St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral Sunday, February 22, 2026, with a full parish community in attendance to support those receiving the Sacraments of Initiation this Easter. The celebrant for this joyful occasion was Reverend James Willick, Diocesan Administrator, and the concelebrant was the Rector of St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral, Fr. Krys Stanula, CSMA.
This Mass marks a transition in the OCIA journey of the catechumens. “Today, during the Rite of Election, we celebrate an important step in the faith journey of these 20 Catechumens,” Father Jim shared. “Based on the intention of the Catechumens (those seeking Baptism) and the testimony of sponsors and Catechists, the Church judges their state of readiness and makes its’ election, meaning chooses and admits these Catechumens judging them fit to take part in the next major celebration, the reception of the Initiation Sacraments at the Easter Vigil on April 4th in their respective parishes. This election is founded on the election by God, in whose name the Church acts.”
During the Rite, catechumens, with their sponsors, were invited into the Sanctuary for the enrollment of names in the Book of the Elect. After, in a very moving moment, with their sponsors hand on their shoulder, Father Jim declared them the Elect, affirming their decision to receive the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.
“After the Rite of Election Mass, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and peace. It was incredibly moving to write my name in the Book of the Elect, and I’m so thankful to have shared that sacred moment with so many fellow catechumens and with my family,” said Naomi Mayich who became one of the Elect.
Many parishioners were overjoyed to see so many preparing to enter the Catholic Church at the upcoming Easter Vigil. The remaining weeks of Lent are a very special time for the Elect and Candidates (those baptized preparing to receive Confirmation and the Eucharist), their sponsors, families, the Catholic communities supporting them, and indeed for the entire Catholic Church.
“It is a great privilege for me to journey with those preparing to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church,” shared Sandra Ann Bourque who coordinates the OCIA program at the Cathedral with the assistance of many volunteers and priests. “Over these past months and years, I have been so blessed to have the opportunity to connect with these families, share in their joys, support them during challenges, and watch them grow, learn, and deepen their relationship with God.”
Please continue to keep in your prayers the Elect and Candidates, their sponsors, and all those assisting with their formation as they prepare to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church this Easter.
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