Dear Parishioners,

Here is some useful information for you about the

OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults)
The Scrutiny and the Exorcism

This past Sunday at the 10:00am Mass, three individuals who seek BAPTISM at the Easter Vigil this spring were recognized as having spent many months “scrutinizing” their lives, desiring changes in their behavior with an “exorcism” that properly imitates the life of a CHRISTIAN.

They stood at the front of the altar, bowing their heads as our community prayed over them that they may continue to learn more about Christ, that they sincerely reject everything in their lives that has been displeasing, and that the HOLY SPIRIT, through my laying on of hands, may help them to overcome their weakness through his power.

This dual action is called Scrutiny with an Exorcism. There will be two other Scrutiny’s with an Exorcism in the following weeks.

The Scrutiny rites of the third, fourth, and fifth Sundays of Lent do not have the most comforting of names. Basically, on these three Sundays the community recognizes the catechumens who have thought real hard (scrutinized) about their ways and actions and have a desire to rid themselves (to have an exorcism) of evil ways.

Many blessings,
Father Jim