At Easter, the family of God in central Illinois will grow by 366 and the final preparations for receiving these men, women and children into the church begins next Sunday, March 1, at the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion.

The ceremonies, which take place in the context of prayer services, will be celebrated by Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, CSC, at 3 and 6 p.m. Both are expected to fill St. Mary’s Cathedral as family, friends, godparents and sponsors come to support the 95 catechumens and 271 candidates who are seeking the Easter sacraments.

Traditionally held on the First Sunday of Lent, the Rite of Election recognizes the catechumens — those who will be baptized, confirmed and receive the Eucharist for the first time at the Easter Vigil — as chosen by God. After receiving the affirmation of the assembly, their catechists and their godparents about their readiness to celebrate the sacraments, Bishop Jenky will declare them to be the “elect.”

The call to Continuing Conversion is celebrated by the candidates — those who have already been baptized and are now seeking to complete their initiation and be received into the full communion of the church.

More than 800 people from parishes outside of Peoria will travel to St. Mary’s Cathedral for the afternoon service, including 43 catechumens and 169 candidates.

The evening service is expected to draw just over 700 people. Among them will be 52 catechumens and 102 candidates.

All of the catechumens and candidates will be invited to come forward and be greeted by Bishop Jenky on behalf of the church.