The period of the catechumenate ends when the catechumens discern, with the help of their sponsors and the parish RCIA team, that God is calling them to receive the sacraments of initiation (baptism, confirmation, and the first Eucharist) at the next Easter Vigil. Before they can be initiated they must be officially called to the sacraments by the bishop or someone designated by him.
The Rite of Election marks the end of formal study of the teaching and practices of the Church. The catechumens are now called the elect. The weeks of Lent are a time of intense prayer and preparation for the Easter Vigil.