Note that there will be no 6:30 PM Mass at Blessed Sacrament Parish.
The Chrism Mass is one of the most significant liturgical celebrations of the year, gathering the bishop, priests, deacons, and faithful from across the diocese during Holy Week. At this Mass, the Church expresses her unity, renews her mission, and prepares for the sacramental life of the coming year.
🕊️ What Happens at the Chrism Mass
- Blessing of the Holy Oils: The bishop blesses three sacred oils that will be used in every parish throughout the year:
- The Oil of the Sick – for the Anointing of the Sick
- The Oil of Catechumens – for those preparing for Baptism
- The Sacred Chrism – a fragrant mixture of oil and balsam used in Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and the dedication of churches and altars These oils are then distributed to each parish, symbolizing the bishop’s pastoral care reaching every corner of the diocese.
- Renewal of Priestly Promises: The priests of the diocese gather with their bishop to publicly renew the promises they made at their ordination. This moment highlights the unity of the priesthood and the shared mission of service to God’s people.
🌿 Why It Matters
The Chrism Mass reveals the deep communion of the Church. The faithful witness:
- The bishop’s role as shepherd and source of sacramental life
- The unity of priests who serve in collaboration with him
- The preparation of the oils that will accompany the faithful at life’s most sacred moments—from birth into the Church to healing in illness and the strengthening of Confirmation
🙏 A Celebration of Unity and Mission
Attending the Chrism Mass is a powerful way to enter more deeply into Holy Week. It is a reminder that the sacraments we receive are not isolated moments but part of the Church’s living, breathing mission to bring Christ’s healing, strength, and consecration to the world.