Florida Catholic | Chrism Mass Celebrates Holy Oils, Holy Commitments

Chrism Mass celebrates Holy oils, holy commitments

PEGGY DEKEYSER | FLORIDA CATHOLIC PENSACOLA-TALLAHASSEE BUREAU EDITOR

Published: 03.14.08

Chrism Mass

The chrism Mass is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 1212 E. Moreno St., Pensacola, beginning at 10 a.m. (CDT). All are welcome.

PENSACOLA | Each year, the faithful of the diocese gather at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart to participate in the chrism Mass, during which Bishop John H. Ricard, SSJ, blesses the holy oils to be used in administering the sacraments for the coming year throughout the diocese.

The chrism Mass isn’t just about the holy oils, even if it does draw its name from the sacred chrism that is consecrated during the rite. It’s also a celebration of commitment to ministry: to the ordained ministry of priests and deacons, and to the dedicated lay ministry of many who serve in the parishes of the diocese.

During the Mass, the oil of catechumens, used in the sacrament of baptism and the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults; and the oil of the sick, used to anoint those facing serious illness, injury or death, are blessed. The sacred chrism, used in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and holy orders and to dedicate altars and churches, is consecrated. Before consecrating the chrism, the bishop stirs aromatic balsam into the pitcher filled with pure olive oil. The oil of the catechumens and the oil of the sick are also pure olive oil, although no balsam is added to them.

The priests of the diocese all gather for the chrism Mass, one of the few occasions during the year that they are all together in one place at one time. During the Mass, they renew their commitment to their priestly ministry and to the service of their bishop.

Following the recommitment of the priests, the deacons of the diocese likewise recommit to service.

Those who serve in the parishes as catechists, marriage and family life program leaders and youth ministers also renew their dedication to serve the people of the diocese.

At the conclusion of the Mass, deacons prepare small portions of each of the holy oils for pastors to take back to their parishes. Many parishes include a presentation of the oils at the beginning of the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday.

Originally, the chrism Mass was celebrated early in the day on Holy Thursday, but with large dioceses spread out over many miles, the Mass has been moved to earlier in Holy Week in most dioceses, allowing time for pastors to travel back to their parishes in ample time to begin the triduum.

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Chrism Mass celebrates Holy oils, holy commitments

Chrism Mass

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