Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion was held on March 9 at St. Bernadette Church in Prospect, Kentucky. Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre addressed the congregation, emphasizing that faith is a "communal journey" rather than a "solitary endeavor." The ceremony included 252 catechumens preparing for baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist, along with 225 candidates readying for confirmation and Eucharist.

Archbishop Fabre highlighted the significance of the rite, stating it is "not merely a formality," but a sacred moment where those entering the Catholic Church publicly acknowledge their commitment to follow Christ. He underscored the importance of community support during this process.

"This is a time for us to come together as a community," he said. "Faith is deeply personal," but requires community involvement. "We, the church, embrace these catechumens and candidates, desiring to welcome them into a community of faith that will nurture, guide and journey with them."

He further urged the congregation to support these individuals through prayer and encouraged them to deepen their own faith alongside the catechumens and candidates.

"Let us not forget the courage and determination of our catechumens and candidates... Their commitment to enter the church is a testament to their faith, and it is a source of inspiration for all of us," he stated.

Among those present were Mary Gray and her mother Barbara Gray from St. Peter the Apostle Church. They shared how they found their path to Catholicism through online resources. Mary discovered videos by Father Chris Alar on YouTube which led her deeper into Catholic teachings.

Barbara initially had reservations about Catholicism but found herself drawn in after watching several videos recommended by her daughter. Both expressed excitement about learning more about Catholic traditions such as the Eucharist.

Another candidate, Karen Grunch from St. James Church in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, recounted how she began exploring Catholicism through Facebook posts shared by a friend. Her spiritual curiosity led her to attend Mass after praying the St. Andrew Novena.

Grunch noted that since starting her preparation in August 2024, she has resolved many of her previous objections stemming from her Protestant background. She expressed anticipation for receiving the Eucharist for the first time.