As Catholic Central continues its Lenten journey, more than 20 Shamrocks marked an important milestone in their faith this Sunday, February 22, 2026, by attending the Rite of Election of Catechumens and the Calling of the Candidates at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament.

Surrounded by thousands of Catholics from across the Archdiocese, our students stood alongside fellow catechumens and candidates preparing to enter more fully into the life of the Church. The annual celebration is a powerful reminder that their faith journey extends far beyond their home parishes and the halls of Catholic Central.

“Mrs. Rebecca Joseph and I look forward to this ceremony each year because it provides our students with an opportunity to see that they are part of the universal Church, not just the Catholic community at their parish and at Catholic Central,” said Theology Teacher and OCIA Moderator, Colin Whitehead ‘13. “It’s almost as exciting as the Mass of Initiation itself because of the beauty of the Cathedral and the sheer number of people present who are taking the same steps that our guys are.”

The Rite of Election is a significant step for catechumens as they prepare to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter, while the Calling of the Candidates affirms those who are already baptized and are preparing to complete their initiation into the Catholic Church. 

Several students had the opportunity to meet and be photographed with clergy following the ceremony, including Fr. Fulton and Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger, who presided over the liturgy. 

Catholic Central extends its gratitude to Mr. Whitehead, Miss Joseph, the students’ sponsors, and all who have supported and guided these young men in their pursuit of Christ. 

Jesus Christ, the Reason for Catholic Central.