The Scrutinies

[KeenanParkerII]

I've noticed that there are special Masses in the missal for the "Scrutinies" of the Catechumens, but we haven't been doing them.. Being a Catechumen, im a bit worried we're missing something. Is this alright? Should I be participating in these special observances? Should I be running to another parish as fast as my feet can take me?

Thanks,

Keenan

[cappie]

These days it's a little unusual to hear of a parish that doesn't have the scrutinies if they have [b]candidates for baptism[/b], but it is not compulsory and does not effect the baptism. You could always ask why they are not celebrated in your parish.

SCRUTINY RITES -- EXAMINING OUR LIVES: The primary way that the Church assists those preparing for baptism (the catechumens, called the elect after the celebration of the Rite of Election on the First Sunday of Lent) in the conversion process during Lent is through the celebration of the rites called Scrutinies. These ritual celebrations are held on the Third, Fourth and Fifth Sundays of Lent. On the Third Sunday we hear the story of the woman at the well and her thirst for God. On the Fourth Sunday we hear the story of the man born blind and the healing power of God in his life. On the Fifth Sunday we hear the story of the raising of Lazarus, which reminds us of our own dying and rising with Christ in Baptism. The Scrutiny rites of Lent are communal prayers celebrated to strengthen the elect to overcome the power of sin in their lives and to grow in virtues. To scrutinize something means to examine it closely. The community does not scrutinize the elect; they scrutinize their own lives and allow God to scrutinize them and to heal them. Since all of us are called to continual conversion throughout our lives, we join with the elect in scrutinizing our own lives and praying to God for the grace to overcome the power of sin that still has a hold on us, and to be strengthened in the virtues.

On the Third Sunday of Lent, we celebrate the First Scrutiny and Exorcism for the Elect (RCIA, 150). When the elect, catechumens and candidates are present, the story of the Woman at the Well is read (Jn 4). In the Scrutiny Rites, those preparing for baptism at the Easter Vigil as well as the entire assembly are called to examine the areas in their lives where they thirst for God and need God's healing love. During the week the presentation of the creed is celebrated with the elect (RCIA, 157).

On the Fourth Sunday of Lent, we celebrate the Second Scrutiny and Exorcism for the Elect (RCIA, 165). When the elect, catechumens and candidates are present, the story of the Man Born Blind is read (Jn 9). In the Scrutiny Rites, those preparing for baptism at the Easter Vigil as well as the entire assembly are called to examine the areas in their lives that block God's love and blind them to God's healing presence.

On the Fifth Sunday of Lent, we celebrate the Third Scrutiny of the Elect (RCIA, 171). When the elect, catechumens and candidates are present, the story of the Raising of Lazarus is read (Jn 11). In the Scrutiny Rites, those preparing for baptism at the Easter Vigil as well as the entire assembly are called to examine the areas in their lives that block God's love and discover where they are entombed in sin and need to experience the life of the risen Christ. During this week the Presentation of the Lord's Prayer is celebrated with the elect (RCIA, 178).