Every year, the Bishop and priests from across the Diocese gather together for the Chrism Mass, one of the most important liturgies in the life of the Church.
During this liturgy, the Bishop and priests will bless the Oil of the Sick and Oil of the Catechumens, and consecrate the Chrism, to be used to anoint those receiving baptism or confirmation. These oils are of great importance in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church.
The Oil of the Sick provides remedy for infirmity of body and soul, so that the afflicted can bravely endure and fight against evils and obtain pardon for sins.
The Oil of the Catechumens is sued during the baptismal rite, to anoint the candidate, giving them the power to renounce the devil and sin before they go to the font of life for rebirth in baptism.
The Chrism, a mixture of olive oil and balsam, is used in the sacrament of confirmation, baptism, and the blessings of churches and altars.
The Chrism Mass is one of the oldest liturgies in the history of the Church. It was celebrated as early as the 2nd century, with documents from the time describing a "ceremony taking place during the Easter Vigil at which two holy oils were blessed and one was consecrated”.
Pope Paul VI said “The Chrism Mass is one of the principal expressions of the fullness of the bishop’s priesthood and signifies the closeness of the priests with him.”
While it was traditionally celebrated on Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday), a separate Mass is now common. It is one of the largest gatherings of the clergy and faithful, together, in most Diocese.
On Tuesday, the Diocese of Broken Bay will celebrate its Chrism Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, Waitara.
Bishop Anthony Randazzo will be joined by priests, deacons, seminarians and faithful from across the Diocese for the special Mass.
Everyone from the Diocese is welcome to join for the Mass. Light refreshments will be served after.
The Chrism Mass will be held at 7:30pm on Tuesday, 26 March at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, Waitara.