Scrutinies in Lent

Why is there so much going on in Lent?

There are many Rites during Lent. This illustrates a shift in focus for the elect from weekly catechesis to "a time of spiritual recollection and preparation" (RCIA, 125). Things should get more spiritually intense during the period of Purification and the Enlightenment because the elect are preparing for the gift of the sacraments. This is an invitation for us to shift focus as well to encourage and provide opportunities for the elect to spiritually prepare. 

Lenten RCIA Rites

• Rite of Election - 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Sunday

• 1st Scrutiny - 3rd Sunday 

• Presentation of the Creed - 3rd week 

• 2nd Scrutiny - 4th Sunday

• 3rd Scrutiny - 5th Sunday

• Presentation of Our Father - 5th week

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What is a Scrutiny?

The Scrutinies are rites of self-searching and repentance celebrated on Sundays during Mass. There are three of them based off of Gospel stories of healing: the woman at the well, the man born blind, and Lazarus. 

They are "meant to uncover then heal all that is weak, defective, or sinful in the hearts of the elect" to strengthen them in Christ and "depend their resolve to hold fast to Christ and carry out their decision to love God above all." (RCIA, 128).

Who are the Scrutinies for?

The Scrutinies are for those not yet baptized who have gone through the rite of election and will be celebrating all three sacraments of initiation at the Easter vigil. 

 All the Scrutinies have these parts:

• Invitation to Silent Prayer - The elect come forward and kneel as we pray for them.

• Intercession for the Elect - We pray together for the elect.

• Exorcism - We pray for freedom from satan and protection. The priest prays over the elect calling down the Holy Spirit.

• Dismissal of the Elect - The elect are sent forth to reflect upon the Word.

Why are the scrutinies exorcisms?

Don't panic, an exorcism does not have to be what you see in the movies! An exorcism is a type of prayer that frees one from the effects of sin and from the influence of the devil and gives them strength on their journey. An exorcism highlights the reality of sin and that we need Jesus to save us. 

What is a Presentation?

In the presentations, the Church entrusts to the elect the ancient texts that express the heart of the Church's faith and prayer. The first is the presentation of the creed the other is The Lord's Prayer. These short rites can be found in the RCIA book and are preferably celebrated within a daily Mass so that the community of the faithful is present. 

"These texts are presented in order to enlighten the elect."      -RCIA 134