If so, for months you’ve been learning about the characteristics of the Roman Catholic Church, the sacraments, the Holy Trinity, the Bible. You’ve been examining the Gospel closely with your group leader. Soon you will receive the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter Vigil. But first, as one of the Elect, you will experience Lent as you never have before.

The Lenten season of conversion and renewal begins with Ash Wednesday. Catechumens and candidates, plan to be at Ash Wednesday services! Our sinful nature, our need for forgiveness, our acknowledgement of our own mortality, our desire for a new beginning in Christ —all are symbolized by the cross that will be traced on your forehead in ashes. Remember the sackcloth and ashes of Bible times? Your ash markings will show the world that you want to move closer to God.

The Rite of Election will happen the first Sunday of Lent. Catechumens and candidates from the Diocese of Dodge City will converge upon the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Bishop Gilmore will lead the rite that announces you as a person soon to receive some or all of the sacraments of initiation. Following this, catechumens will become one of the "Elect," or chosen. Candidates become one of the chosen at baptism.

On the third, fourth and fifth Sundays of Lent, you will participate in special prayers called the Scrutinies. Through communal prayers, Catholics and RCIA participants closely examine their lives, mindsets and attitudes. What comes between you and God? Racism? Intolerance? Unresolved anger? Misplaced priorities? Scrutinies are a value check—they are a time to pray for the strength to change. Your parish community will join you in these prayers.

In your RCIA meetings you will hear about prayer, fasting and almsgiving — the three pillars of Lent. Fasting raises questions from many non-Catholics, particularly because it includes the abstention from meat as well as eating sparingly. This ancient tradition is multi-purpose. First, fasting exercises self-control and stands opposite self-indulgence. Also, fasting can be done for solidarity — to feel the pain that poor people suffer who lack access to food. Also, fasting makes one appreciate the blessings of abundant food. As for meat, remember that hungry people in undeveloped countries rarely have access to meat. So meat abstinence links us spiritually to the less fortunate. Avoiding meat is designed to be a form of fast. It’s a sacrifice because we like meat, especially here in beef country. We miss it when we can’t have it. Know that Fridays during Lent require abstinence from meat (beef, pork, chicken). Ash Wednesday and Good Friday mean abstinence and fasting.

As long ago as the 4th Century, non-Christians seeking the Sacraments of Initiation spent the 40 days before Easter in preparation.

Similarly, you make ready your heart and mind for your new life in Christ. For some, this will mean breaking down barriers to true love of God and self. Others will prepare by doing more of what is good, like praying and performing acts of charity and forgiveness. Our early-century brothers and sisters knew they must learn how to live the Gospel message. Now, you are part of the same process.

At no point are you alone. Your RCIA director, your sponsor, your fellow Elect, and of course, your parish, support you with prayers and good wishes. Make the most of the first Lent of the rest of your life.