The 1st Scrutiny

The Scrutinies are a ritual assessment of the Elects' readiness to receive the Sacraments of Christian Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) at the Rite of Reception, which is conducted during the Easter Vigil.

The scrutinies are meant to uncover, and then heal all that is weak, defective, or sinful in the hearts of the elect; to bring out, then strengthen all that is upright, strong, and good. (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, International Commission on English in the Liturgy and the Bishops' Committee on the Liturgy, National Conference of Catholic Bishops)

The Scrutinies are celebrated on the Third, Fourth and Fifth Sundays of Lent as part of the Period of Purification and Enlightenment.

The Elect and their sponsor(s) will attend the Sunday 5:15 PM Mass to celebrate the 1st Scrutiny, which includes a presentation of the Creed, following by a purification and enlightenment session in the Library.

To learn more about the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), visit the RCIA page.