On February 26th, the first Sunday of Lent, the diocese celebrated the Rite of Election. All the people who are becoming Catholics this year gathered together at St Mary's Cathedral together with their sponsors, catechists, pastors, friends and families for a celebration which marks an important stage in their journey to the Catholic Church.
During this celebration the Bishop welcomes them and they sign their name in the "Book of the Elect".
Inspiring music was provided by the members of the Diocesan Choir; it was a moving and enjoyable service and really wonderful to see so many people preparing to join the Catholic Church.
During his homily Bishop Seamus said:
"Now is a time to start building up a deep and personal relationship with Christ and we must keep building on that for the rest of our lives. To those of you who are preparing to be baptised or received into full communion with the Catholic Church I say: "Get to know Christ better." It is not enough for us to get to know about him we must get to know him and we must experience his power at work in the stillness and quiet of prayer.
"Those of you who are preparing to be baptised or received into full communion with the church - you have the wonderful experience of coming to express a profound choice you have made and along the way many people have helped you to make that choice because of choices they have made. We thank God for them.
"Today you are stepping out in faith and you are putting your trust in God. Remeber you won't walk alone. God will be with you every step of the way and we as a Church will accompany you and support you."
See also report on national website
All those who are going to become Catholics at Easter - over 100 people from different parts of the diocese - with Bishop Seamus at the Rite of Election on the first Sunday of Lent
(note to candidates and catechumens - if you would like a higher resolution copy of this photo emailed to you please email your request to webmaster@rcdhn.org.uk mentioning the name of your parish)
