‘I’ve only known of Catholicism through the culture’: new Catholics share their journey to the Church

This Easter, about 500 men, women and children in the Archdiocese of Vancouver will join or enter into full Communion with the Catholic Church. Catechumens – individuals who are not yet baptized – will receive the Church’s sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, and First Communion. Candidates who are already baptized will be received into full communion, receiving the sacraments of confirmation and Eucharist. 

The candidates and catechumens recently attended the Rite of Election at Holy Rosary Cathedral, where they signed the Book of the Elect to indicate their decisions to submit their lives to Christ.

We invited some of those who attended to share their experiences as they prepare for the Easter Vigil when they will be received into the Catholic Church. 

 The homily at our Rite of Election truly moved me, as Archbishop Michael Miller spoke, as if directly only to me, about God having chosen us for this path (it is not us who have chosen to find him). Now during this time of purification and enlightenment, during the quiet time I have reserved to spend with the Lord, I hear Jesus calling me back home to the Catholic Church, and I am so grateful to share this Christian life journey with my family.

I feel truly blessed for finding the amazing community at Holy Cross in Burnaby, and meeting the devoted RCIA team who serves in the important ministry of leading people into a deep relationship with God. My husband and I started our Christian initiation in September 2023, and I have found the delivery of the Catholic teachings through RCIA to be welcoming and identifiable, but also humbling, as we learn about our need for God’s love and grace while highlighting the fullness of the Catholic faith. 

Junica, Holy Cross Parish, Burnaby

I have driven by the Holy Rosary Cathedral numerous times and its grand architecture had always triggered my desire to explore inside. To have the opportunity to walk inside on this special occasion of the Rite of Election was truly an honour for me.

At the Rite of Election, a sense of reverence and solemnity filled my heart as I was officially called to the next stage in my journey toward full initiation into the Catholic Church. The ceremony was such a powerful symbol of the Church’s embrace of us the seekers, who have spent months in preparation. As I stood before Archbishop Michael, I truly felt, through his warm smile and blessings, the acknowledgement and welcome into the community of faith with open arms.

It was a profound and moving experience that marked a pivotal moment in my life. I took another step in answering the call of the Lord and embracing my faith. I will believe in him, worship him, and follow him in the new chapter of my life.

Alex, Star of the Sea Parish, Surrey

I came to Canada in 1952 and lived in the east side of Vancouver where I went to school. Most of my neighbours were Italian Catholic. My wife, Alice, was baptized in 1977 and every Sunday we attended church together. 

For almost 50 years I attended Mass with Alice. My children are all Catholic. Then, last year I learned about RCIA being offered at Good Shepherd Church and decided it was finally my turn. With the blessing of my whole Catholic family, at the age of 82, I am now preparing to be baptized this Easter. 

The Rite of Election, Feb. 18, is a date that I will remember for life – seeing so many other parishes attending the Mass at the cathedral, meeting Archbishop Miller in person, and having a photo taken with the Star of the Sea Parish RCIA group. I felt a sense of belonging. I am happy to know that Jesus loves me.

Jim, Star of the Sea Parish, Surrey

As I look back on my journey to the Rite of Election, it’s like finding a light in the darkness. I didn’t have any faith. I didn’t believe in anything beyond what I could see. 

But then, something changed within me. I started seeking, asking questions about the meaning of life and what lies beyond. Discovering the Catholic faith was like finding a treasure I never knew existed.

The Rite of Election was a pivotal moment for me. Surrounded by others on the same journey, I felt a sense of belonging and purpose. It’s like I finally found my place in the world.

Now, as one of the elect, I’m filled with a sense of wonder and excitement. The final steps before Easter are a time of preparation and reflection. Each day brings new discoveries and challenges, but I know I’m not alone. The support of my sponsors, my parish community, and the Church at large has been a guiding light.

My journey from disbelief to faith has been a remarkable one. The Rite of Election is not just a ceremony but a symbol of my transformation. I’m grateful for this opportunity and eager to continue growing in my newfound faith as I prepare to embrace the sacraments of initiation.

Jack, Star of the Sea Parish, Surrey

At RCIA, I have found a welcoming space where I feel a sense of belonging, as if I have been accepted into a big and loving family.

The Rite of Election was a big part of my spiritual journey. During the ceremony, I felt something great, like the Holy Spirit was right there with me. This experience filled me with a deep sense of faith and commitment. It was a clear and heartfelt confirmation of my choice to be a part of the Catholic faith. 

Michael, Saint Clare of Assisi Parish, Coquitlam 

Participating in the Rite of Election was an exceptionally meaningful experience for me. The event left me with a profound sense of gratitude and awe. From the moment I entered, an undeniable atmosphere of inspiration enveloped the entire ceremony. Being selected for this occasion felt like a divine blessing, and I couldn’t help but sense a strong connection to a higher power guiding me throughout. The ceremony wasn’t merely an acknowledgment but rather a moment of receiving divine assistance and grace, rendering it an unforgettable and humbling experience. I am sincerely thankful for the opportunity to have been part of such a profoundly meaningful and spiritually uplifting event.

Hee Yeon, Saint Andrew Kim Parish, Surrey

After overcoming the various difficulties I faced over the past six months, I felt finally accepted as a child of God by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. I was often told that baptism is like being born again as a child of the Lord. As the day of baptism approaches, I feel new and am filled with infinite gratitude to the Lord. I pledge to continue nurturing my faith diligently and strive to become a beloved child of God.

Su Kyeong, Saint Andrew Kim Parish, Surrey

I felt a strong sense of belonging and importance at the Rite of Election. The ceremony was serious, and the community made me feel really included, leaving a lasting impression on me. 

When they said I was chosen, I felt humble and thankful. Knowing I’m not alone on this journey but part of a bigger group of believers was really comforting. Making the commitment to follow the Catholic faith felt real and meaningful. 

Looking forward to Easter now comes with a fresh sense of responsibility and happiness as I keep going on this changing faith journey.

The Rite of Election didn’t just confirm my commitment; it also sparked a spiritual flame in me, connecting me to God.

Forest Ma, Star of the Sea Parish, Surrey

The Rite of Election marked a significant milestone in my journey to become Catholic. I appreciated everything it offered. Upon entering the church, I was given a warm welcome that gave me a sense of familiarity. Standing alongside fellow catechumens from across the Lower Mainland, I felt a strong sense of community and support. 

This shared moment strengthened my sense of belonging and purpose. The well-organized Mass provided me with a clear pathway, guiding me step by step through this important transition. I was pleasantly surprised to find my name in the booklet. Having my sponsor alongside me the entire time offered not just practical support but also spiritual guidance and encouragement. 

Signing my name during the event was another sentimental moment, reflecting the deeply personal decision and marking my formal commitment to embrace Catholicism. It set the stage for the final stages of preparation leading to baptism. The entire experience brought me closer to God. As I approach the final stages of preparation for baptism, these experiences have strengthened and deepened my faith. I find extra purpose when attending learning sessions and Mass. I’m excited to embark on this transformative journey and be reborn.

Jennifer, Star of the Sea Parish, Surrey

At the Rite of Election, I felt love and was amazed to see so many other catechumens going through this journey with me.

Jason, Immaculate Conception Parish, Delta

I’ve only known of Catholicism through the culture. A lot of it I learned through watching the television program Father Ted with my dad, so I didn’t know what to expect. I was surprised at how packed the cathedral was and I thought the stained glass windows were beautiful. I want to thank everyone for the reception afterwards.

Now that I’m in the final stages of preparing for baptism, I am starting to feel the love of the community and the Church. I hope once I am baptized and one with the Lord that that love will continue to grow.

I want to be cleansed of any sins or burdens I carry with me in life.

I am looking forward to Easter Vigil Mass and my upcoming baptism, and, following that, growing in the life of Christ. 

I want to extend my warmest thanks to Archbishop Michael for his leadership in faith.

Ken, St. Joseph’s, Port Moody

At the Rite of Election, I could feel the warm heart of the catechumens. I could also see that their smiles came deep down from their inner being.

Standing among the multitude of fellow believers, I had a profound connection as we were embarking on this spiritual journey together.

My participation filled me with overwhelming excitement and reverence. The solemnity of the ceremony, as well as the participants’ shared commitment, stirred a deep and genuine gratitude within me, reinforcing the significance of this profound step in my journey of faith. 

I took my RCIA class very seriously, not missing it unless something serious happened. Even though it might be snowing and the road was slippery, I knew I was being protected as I drove along and safely arrived at church for class. This was a sign of assurance that I was called to become a Catholic.

As I progress and approach the final stage of preparation for baptism, I feel like I am getting closer to God. Also, his tender care in my life, including my family members, to the very small details is very obvious. It touches my heart.

Joanna, St. Joseph’s, Port Moody

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