The Scrutinies-The next step

Parishes, where the elect are preparing to receive the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil, would have been witness to the three scrutinies celebrated on the third, fourth and fifth Sundays of Lent.  The readings are taken from Year A.  (Variations may apply according to parish circumstances) RCIA #132, 133.

RCIA #130 “In order to inspire in the elect a desire for purification and redemption by Christ, three scrutinies are celebrated. 

• By this means, first of all, the elect are instructed gradually about the mystery of sin, from which the whole world and every person longs to be delivered and thus saved from its present and future consequences.
• Second, their spirit is filled with Christ the Redeemer, who is living water (gospel of the Samaritan woman in the first scrutiny), the lights of the world (gospel of the man born blind in the second scrutiny), the resurrection and the life (gospel of Lazarus in the third scrutiny).

From the first to the final scrutiny the elect should progress in their perception of sin and their desire for salvation.”

“These rites, therefore, should complete the conversion of the elect and deepen their resolve to hold fast to Christ and to carry out their decision to love God above all.” RCIA #128

Confirmation dates have been set and information regarding readings (outside of Mass) for Year C, as well as templates for ‘The Order for the Conferral of Confirmation within Mass’ and ‘The Order for the Conferral of Confirmation without Mass’,  have been sent to parish offices from the Bishop’s Office. 

Dynamic Catholic has a free online programme, Blessed First Reconciliation and Blessed First Communion, which are available at https://dynamiccatholic.com/blessed . The student book and teacher guide are free to download, and the videos are accessible to all. Please contact me regarding any queries.

Please feel free to contact me regarding any queries concerning sacramental preparation for school aged children. (phone 4994 8104).

Jocelyne Benoit (Sacraments’ Resource Contact-Diocese of Rockhampton)