REFLECT:
Today is Laetare Sunday. Laetare comes from a Latin word that means "rejoice." Why should we rejoice? Well, we're halfway through Lent so that means we're that much closer to the awesome joy of the resurrection. It also means that our Elect - Arjun, Jack, Marlee, and Nawel - are that much closer to receiving the Easter sacraments. 

Our elect will celebrate the second of three scrutinies today. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults describes the scrutinies as: "...solemnly celebrated on Sundays and are reinforced by an exorcism, are rites for self-searching and repentance and have above all a spiritual purpose. The scrutinies are meant to uncover, 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," (RCIA, 141). The most profound part of the scrutiny is the extended moment of silence when the whole assembly is praying for the elect as they kneel. The power of having the Church praying for them as they come humbly come before God is amazing.

Arjun, Jack, Marlee, and Nawel are already filled with joy and anticipation for their baptism, confirmation, and first reception of Jesus in the Eucharist. It is a contagious joy that causes us to think back to our own joy when we received Holy Communion for the first time and were confirmed. Let's carry that joy and anticipation alongside of our Elect so that we, too, may be made anew at Easter.

PRAY:
Good and loving God, you continue to bless us with many gifts. Help us to cherish the gifts of your sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist. May the reception of the Body and Blood of Christ always bring us joy and peace. Amen.

ACT:
Please pray for Arjun, Jack, Marlee, and Nawel during these last weeks of Lent.