In 2025, 136 Catechumens and 292 Candidates began preparation to be baptized and fully enter into the life of the Catholic Church this past Sunday afternoon and evening, the first Sunday of Lent, March 9, for our Diocese’s Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion at our magnificent and historic Mother Church, The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

During the Rite of Election, Catechumens (those who have not been baptized in any Christian faith tradition) publicly expressed to Bishop David P. Talley, the sixth Bishop of Memphis, their desire for Baptism. Their names were recorded in the Book of the Elect, a designation which reflects that the local Bishop, in the name of the Lord and the local Church, is choosing or electing them to share in the Easter Sacraments.

Candidates (those who were baptized in another Christian faith tradition) celebrated the Call to Continuing Conversion, publicly professing their faith and desire to come into full Communion with the Catholic Church.

Then, throughout Lent, the Catechumens and Candidates join with Catholics across the world in seeking to deepen their faith, grow in holiness, and strengthen their relationships with God and neighbor. Many blessings to all our wonderful Catechumens and Candidates.