The Rite of Election of Catechumens (and the Calling of Candidates to Continuing Conversion) will be celebrated as usual on the First Sunday of Lent, February 22, 2026.

This important Lenten ritual is for catechumens preparing for full initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion) at the Easter Vigil 2026. Also invited are those baptized Christians who are seeking to be received into the full communion of the Catholic Church this Easter and have been preparing alongside the catechumens. (Please remember that non-Catholic Christians may be received into full communion any time during the year.)

Celebrations will take place at 2pm (English) at Immaculate Conception Church in Dayton and 2pm (English) at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter-in-Chains.  Archbishop Casey will preside for a single celebration in Spanish at 7pm at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in Liberty Township.

Families of Parishes may choose from any of the liturgies for their group to attend, based on geography, timing, or language; there will be no deanery-specific assignments.

Please RSVP by Jan 31 to ensure the names of catechumens and candidates are included on the website, as well as adequate seating for parish groups.