Bishop Celebrates Mass for East Timorese Community
March 20, 2025
The Day of Prayer for Engaged Couples
March 24, 2025
On the First Sunday of Lent (9 March), the Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Norwich was filled with joy and anticipation as catechumens and candidates from across the Diocese of East Anglia gathered for the Rite of Election.
This important milestone marks a significant step in their journey towards full communion with the Catholic Church this Easter.
Approximately 120 catechumens (those preparing for baptism) and candidates (those to be received into the Church) were presented to Bishop Alan Hopes, who presided over the celebration on behalf of Bishop Peter Collins. The attendees, representing around 20 parishes across the diocese, were accompanied by their godparents, sponsors, clergy, and parish communities in a moving and faith-filled liturgy.
Fr Alan Hodgson, Dean of the Cathedral Church, reflected on the significance of the event, saying:
“It was a joyful affair which many people found quite moving and the first occasion given to them to express their calling to Catholicism in such a public manner. Since Covid, we as a diocese have seen a steady increase in people wishing to join our Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) courses in parishes.”
This year’s gathering marks a remarkable rise in numbers, with around 120 catechumens and candidates compared to approximately 80 last year – an encouraging sign of the growing faith within the diocese. As these individuals prepare to enter into the sacramental life of the Church at Easter, they do so supported by their parish communities, who continue to nurture and guide them on their spiritual journey.
May this Easter be truly blessed for all those taking this significant step in faith, and may they find joy and strength in their new life in Christ.
