God at Work in Our Hearts
This past Sunday, something truly beautiful unfolded across the Diocese of Rapid City. Bishop Bullock gathered with catechumens, now joyfully called the Elect, along with a group of already-baptized Christians called Candidates, as they took one of the most meaningful steps on their journey toward full communion with the Catholic Church.
What Is the Rite of Election?
The Rite of Election is one of the most significant celebrations in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). Held on or around the First Sunday of Lent, it is the moment when the Church formally recognizes and “elects” those who are prepared to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil. For those who have never been baptized, this celebration marks their transition from being called catechumens to being called the Elect. For those baptized in another Christian tradition, this is the moment they are formally recognized as Candidates for full communion. Their names are written in the Book of the Elect, a powerful symbol of God calling them by name.
Strengthening the Church Together
At the Western South Dakota Catholic Foundation, our mission is to continue Christ’s mission by promoting faith-filled giving that strengthens the Church in Western South Dakota. Moments like the Rite of Election are a living example of exactly what that mission looks like in action. When over 120 people across the Diocese of Rapid City answer God’s call to enter the Church, it is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. Every gift, every grant, and every act of generosity we steward helps build a diocese where faith can take root, grow, and transform lives.
God at Work in the Diocese of Rapid City
This year, a record number of over 120 people across the Diocese of Rapid City are preparing to enter the Catholic Church at Easter Vigil, and that number is a testament to the Holy Spirit moving powerfully in our communities. These are neighbors, coworkers, and family members whose hearts have been stirred by God’s call. Month after month, through study, prayer, and reflection, they have grown in their faith and now stand ready to enter fully into the life of the Church. Bishop Bullock’s presence at this Rite is a reminder that this is the whole diocese saying, “We see you. We welcome you. You belong here.”
The Gift of Sponsors
Behind every Elect and every Candidate is a dedicated sponsor, a fellow Catholic who has walked alongside them throughout this process, offering time, prayer, and the irreplaceable gift of their presence as a living witness of the faith.
Looking Ahead to Easter
As we journey through Lent together, let us keep the Elect and Candidates in our prayers. They will undergo the Scrutinies in the weeks ahead, preparing their hearts to receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil. What a joy it is to witness God at work in the hearts of those seeking Him and in the life of our diocese.
Please keep all of the Elect and Candidates in your prayers as they complete this final stretch of their journey.
