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Catechumens who have been taking classes on the Catholic faith in various parishes of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Kampala have been officially received by the Archbishop, the Most Rev. Paul Ssemogerere. The 229 hitherto unbaptized adults, adolescents and children of catechetical age were presented to the archbishop during the celebration of the rite of election at Rubaga Cathedral on Sunday.

Before receiving the catechumens, the archbishop cross-examined their parents and their catechetical instructors to ascertain that they are worthy and fully prepared to be members of the Catholic Church.

Following their participation in the rite of election, the Catechumens will receive the three Catholic Sacraments of Christian initiation, namely Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist at their respective parish church on Easter Vigil.

The rite has a history that dates back to the introduction of Gentiles to Christianity as the Church expanded from its Jewish roots. Its present form is part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

The Catholic rite of election or enrolment of Catechumens is as old as the Church. According to Fr/ Anthony Musaala, the tradition dates back to the introduction of Gentiles to Christianity as the church expanded from its Jewish roots.

The celebration at Rubaga Cathedral was hosted by the Cathedral Administrator, the Very Rev. Fr. Achilles Mayanja