A record-breaking 720 catechumens—double last year’s count—and their sponsors packed the pews at Holy Rosary Cathedral, filling both Rite of Election Masses to the brim.
In addition to the catechumens preparing for baptism, 120 Christians from non-Catholic churches will also be received into full communion with the Catholic Church this Easter.
The Rite of Election, held over two weekends because of the high attendee numbers, consists of a Mass, within which each catechumen signed the Book of the Elect, a physical record of everyone recommended to the Church for baptism and confirmation this Easter. Archbishop Miller greeted each of the catechumens personally.
“The remarkable number of catechumens this year is a testament to the work of the Holy Spirit in our local Church,” said Archbishop Miller. “It is a great joy to welcome so many individuals who have been called to embrace the Catholic faith and become part of our community.”
Our deep desire for God called everyone together, the Archbishop said in his homily. “Amid our joys and frustrations, we are all longing not for what the world offers but for God.”
The Archbishop thanked the godparents and sponsors accompanying each catechumen on their path to the Church. “Your role as true missionary disciples, not just teaching the faith but living it joyfully, is invaluable. You are like ambassadors, bringing those you accompany into the life of the Church, fostering a sense of belonging, and inspiring them to continue growing in holiness alongside their fellow believers,” he said.
Many of the catechumens were eager to share their experiences at the Rite of Election. Some have been edited.
From the Catechumens
Sarah Hurley – St. Patrick Parish, Vancouver
Stepping into Holy Rosary Cathedral for the Rite of Election felt like entering a sacred embrace, its majestic stained-glass windows glowing with divine light.
Being greeted by Archbishop Miller was an honour that deepened the heavenly joy of sharing this moment with my 8-year-old daughter. Together, we felt truly welcomed into this blessed community as we journey toward our baptism at Easter Vigil.
Colette – St. John the Apostle Parish, Vancouver
The Rite of Election was moving, and I felt very blessed to be with so many people called by God to join him.
John – Guardian Angels Parish, Vancouver
Archbishop Miller and our priests created a hallowed space like Saint Augustine’s Rome, with Our Holy Mother and Santa Monica bathing our cathedral with light.
Vancouver, the peaceful crossroads of the world, became one, in the rekindled universal sacred family of our Lord.
Angel – Guardian Angels Parish, Vancouver
The Rite of Election was an incredible experience. The large assembly was unified in love, and the cathedral was filled with beauty. It truly was an uplifting and deeply spiritual healing.
Rob
The Rite of Election brought together friends from all walks of life, joined in our collective “Yes” to God. What a moving testament to the universal embrace of the Church on our journey of faith!
Jordan – St. Joseph’s Parish, Port Moody
[The Rite of Election] left me overwhelmed with emotion, as I felt warmly welcomed into a new, eternal family. It was a profound experience of being accepted onto a true, enlightened path, surrounded by a spiritual community that I know will always support me emotionally and guide me in faith.
Jamie – Christ the Redeemer, West Vancouver
Surrounded by many people I had never met before, there was an unspoken sense of closeness among us, bound by our shared faith. As the Mass progressed, I felt, for the first time, that I was truly part of the Catholic Church—not just as an observer, but as someone embraced by this sacred community. At the same time, I sensed that the Church had entered my heart, filling me with warmth and a profound sense of belonging. It was a moment of deep connection, where faith was not just around me but within me.
Entering Mass, Archbishop Michael Miller walked with assistance, his steps slow and careful. But the moment the Mass began, his voice resonated powerfully through the cathedral—strong, clear, and unwavering. When he made the Sign of the Cross, his movements were firm and full of conviction. In that moment, I was deeply moved. It was as if a great strength radiated from him, not just physical, but spiritual. His presence was a testament to the enduring power of faith, and witnessing it filled me with awe.
Alexis – Christ the Redeemer, West Vancouver
It was my first time attending Mass at Holy Rosary Cathedral and it’s an experience I will not forget. It felt very special to be a part of the union of communities from many parishes and cultures.
Jae – Christ the Redeemer, West Vancouver
Attending the cathedral for the Rite of Election was a deeply moving experience, surrounded by so many fellow candidates and catechumens sharing the same faith journey.
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