Q: There seems to be some confusion as to who is actually dismissed when we dismiss the Catechumens after the homily in Mass.

One camp maintains it is just the unbaptized (the true catechumen).

One camp maintains it should be both the unbaptized and the candidates.

One camp maintains that whichever group is dismissed, their godparent/sponsor should be dismissed with them.

As I read the new OCIA, it simply says the catechumens should be dismissed (#67) with no mention of candidates or godparents or sponsors.

Do you have any clarification to offer?

==

A: The OCIA calls for the dismissal of catechumens, never of candidates, never of godparent or sponsors. The RCIA had the same. There’s been no change.

The unbaptized do not have the tools to participate fully in the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

For more on the deference we owe the candidates, see my book Full Communion with Us.

View All Blog Posts | Explore Books | Submit a Blog Question | Share Post via Email