This service brings together many (320 this year) Catechumens and Candidates from across the diocese. They are seeking to become full members of the Catholic Church this Easter.

The Catechumens are yet to be baptised, and so at Easter they will first be baptised after which they will receive full entry to the church with the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. Candidates from other christian churches will just receive Confirmation and the Eucharist.

During this service the names of the Catechumens and Candidates are presented to the Bishop, and their sponsors will then invite them to be introduced personally to the Bishop.

Photos of many of those present, taken during the service, are shown below.

Hymn – Lord of All Hopefulness – led by Andrew Wright, Cathedral Director of Music – (Organ –  Jake Scicinski)

Hymn – Amazing Grace!

Bishop Alan clearly has a kind word of greeting for each and every Catechumen and Candidate; and they are all now really looking forward to Easter when they become full members of the Catholic Church