VANCOUVER (CCN) — Speaking moments before hundreds of catechumens and candidates signed their names in the Book of the Elect in anticipation of baptism and Confirmation at Easter, Archbishop Richard Smith addressed the doubts some might feel as they prepare to become Catholic.
Speaking at the Rite of Election, held over two days to accommodate the historically high number of people seeking entrance and communion in the Church, the archbishop referenced the Gospel reading of Christ’s temptations in the desert, highlighting the devil’s role in raising doubts that may plague those coming into the Church.“Here, the devil is seducing Jesus away from fidelity to the will of his Heavenly Father,” Archbishop Smith told those gathered at Holy Rosary Cathedral on Feb. 22. “These same temptations can beset those who are chosen to follow Jesus. We need to be aware of them and resist them with the help of God’s grace.”
Such temptations can’t be overcome by our will alone, he said. “Jesus alone is able to stand steadfast against the evil one, and he gives you—he gives us all—a share in his strength, so that we too, [in Christ], can also overcome [the devil].”
A day earlier, another Rite of Election was held at St. Matthew’s in Surrey, where, like the cathedral, the pews were filled with soon-to-be Catholics and their sponsors.Archbishop Smith assured about 650 catechumens and nearly 120 candidates seeking Confirmation that becoming Catholic has “nothing to do with personal merits or worthiness,” and that the love of God makes them worthy.
“You’re chosen by God to follow his Son to eternal life. Today, God, through the Church, elects you to celebrate Easter sacraments so that through those sacraments, you’ll be united to Jesus and become a member of his Church.”
As new Catholics, they will also be “surrounded and supported by the Church,” he said. “We look forward with great anticipation to welcoming you among the community of disciples of Jesus Christ.”The archbishop also reflected on the meaning of the word election, saying it’s usually thought of as making a personal choice. “In this sacred moment, the Rite of Election highlights a reverse dynamic,” he said. “You’re not choosing, you are chosen—the one electing you is God.” “God bases this choice not upon any merits you have for having considered and weighed what you propose to do, but solely on the basis of his wondrous love for you.”
