During Lent,  the congregation will be asked to witness and to participate in several special Rites called Scrutinies.  These Rites are part of the RCIA journey and support the elect (those preparing for Baptism) as they move into the final period of preparation for the sacraments that they will receive at the Easter Vigil.

They have been nourished by the graces of various liturgical Rites (ceremonies) throughout the RCIA process, which have helped them to embrace God's call.  In Lent, God pours purifying and enlightening graces upon them, through the spiritual preparation they receive in RCIA sessions; the special Rites (Rite of Acceptance, Rite of Sending, Rite of Election, Rite of Continuing Conversion) that mark the Sundays of the liturigical year and Lent, and the prayers offered for them by the faithful.

The Church calls the time immediately preceding initiation, the period of "Enlightenment and Purification" for those in the RCIA.  This is what Lent is meantto be for all of us.

What are the Scrutinies?

The Scrutinies, celebrated in the parish community on the 3rd, 4th, & 5th Sundays of Lent.  They are meant to help the elect 'uncover, then heal all that is weak, defective, or sinful in the hearts of the elect" and to bring out, then strengthen all that is upright, strong and good.

The Scripture readings for the Scrutinies include the Gospel stores of the Samaritan woman at the well, the healing of the man born blind, and the raising of Lazarus.