On the afternoon of the First Sunday of Lent, nearly 700 men and women from across the Diocese of Toledo gathered at Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral for the Rite of Election of Catechumens and the Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates.
Celebrated by Daniel E. Thomas, the liturgy marked an important step for those preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil in their home parishes. Catechumens—those who have not yet been baptized—were formally elected by the Church, while candidates preparing to enter into full communion affirmed their desire to continue their journey of conversion.
Surrounded by sponsors, family members, parish priests, deacons, consecrated religious, and friends from throughout the Diocese’s nineteen counties, the Elect and Candidates publicly expressed their intention to enter more deeply into the life of Christ and His Church.
“In a packed Cathedral on the afternoon of the First Sunday of Lent, we celebrated the Rite of Election of Catechumens and the Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates,” Bishop Thomas said. “These almost 700 now-Elect and Candidates publicly expressed their desire to enter more deeply into the life of Christ and His Church. Their faith, courage, and sincerity are truly edifying and a powerful witness to us all.”
As Lent continues, the Elect and Candidates now enter a period of more intense spiritual preparation before receiving the Sacraments at the Easter Vigil.
“As they now enter the final weeks of preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil in their parishes,” Bishop Thomas added, “I invite you to join me in praying for them during these sacred days of Lent. May the Lord strengthen them in grace, deepen their faith, hope and love, and grant them perseverance as faithful disciples.”
The Diocese invites all the faithful to keep the Elect and Candidates in prayer as they prepare to be fully united with the Church at Easter.
Posted February 24, 2026 at 8:56 am