On 22 February 2026, RCIA groups from around the Palmerston North Diocese gathered at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Palmerston North for the Rite of Election and Enrolment of Names. Something that was immediately obvious was the range of ages and ethnicities, accentuating that the Roman Catholic faith is appealing to people everywhere.
The service, conducted by Bishop John Adams, was welcoming, simple and flowed beautifully with everyone present learning from Bishop John’s homily.
Sponsors and Catechists felt pride and joy as the Elect and Candidates placed their names in the Book of the Elect.
Those people attending, who had not seen the Cathedral before, were in awe of the beauty of the stained glass windows.
It was a lovely day and one that will be remembered by the Elect, Candidates, Sponsors and Catechists for a long time.
Words and photos by Lee Russell
RCIA Coordinator for the Catholic Parish of Hastings
