ORLANDO | For those journeying to Catholicism, the road is dotted with significant landmark moments we call rites. They mark notable transitions in the path. The first one inquirers experience in the Order of Catholic Initiation of Adults (OCIA – formerly called RCIA) is the Rite of Acceptance where they become known as catechumens.

Almost a year later, they receive the Rite of Sending. Bruce Croteau, diocesan director of worship, explained this is an optional rite often incorporated into the Rite of Election. However, in the Diocese of Orlando, because we are blessed with so many coming into the Church, it is celebrated separately in each parish.

At the Rite of Sending, catechumens sign their name in the Book of the Elect. The main reason is the parish has a role in sending their catechumens to the bishop to be acknowledged. The community is asked questions about the preparation of their catechumenate, “showing they have a role in the life of the catechumens in bringing people to Christ. It affirms that this is a baptizing community,” Croteau said. The words are, “This community gladly recommends you to the bishop.”

Croteau explained this is why the baptismal font plays a prominent role in a church. It states the community baptizes, unlike shrines which do not have a baptismal font, only holy water fonts, because they do not baptize there.

This is reiterated at the Rite of Election where the catechumen’s status changes to “Elect”. This means they are chosen to receive the Easter Sacraments.

In our next issue we will discuss the Period of Purification and Enlightenment.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, March 13, 2025