Hundreds of faithful and priests from every corner of Broken Bay joined Bishop Anthony Randazzo to celebrate the Chrism Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral last night, an important part of the Holy Week.
Not only is the Chrism Mass a time when the sacred oils to be used in the Sacraments are blessed, it’s also a chance for the clergy and faithful of the Diocese to unite ahead of the Easter Triduum.
The Cathedral was overflowing for the event, as hundreds of parishioners and clergy joined together for this special Mass.
Members of The Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of the Southern Cross, of which Bishop Anthony is the Apostolic Administrator, were also present for the Mass.
In his homily, Bishop Anthony spoke of the significance of the Chrism Mass in the life of the local Church.
“As we gather in this cathedral church during the Holy Year of Hope, our Chrism Mass takes on a deeply powerful significance,” he said.
“It is here that the oils of the Church are blessed, and the Sacred Chrism consecrated, signs of healing, joy, strength, and consecration. It is also here that we, the priestly people of God, renew our mission. And today, that mission is one of hope.
“In this year dedicated to hope, it is Jesus himself who becomes our hope, hope incarnate, hope made visible, hope risen from the tomb. And this hope is not passive. It moves outward. It heals wounds. It lifts the fallen. It announces a new beginning even in the shadow of death.”
During the Mass, the priests also renewed their priestly promises in the presence of Bishop Anthony and the faithful from across the Diocese, a joyful witness to their shared vocation.
“Today, I thank God for my brother priests; those of Broken Bay and the Personal Ordinariate,” said Bishop Anthony.
“Through the laying on of hands, you have been consecrated to lead the people in worship, to proclaim the Gospel with truth and compassion, and to offer the Eucharistic sacrifice in the person of Jesus Christ. You make present among us the faithful Shepherd who never abandons His flock.
“And so, this Chrism Mass is not just a ceremony of oil and ritual, it is a celebration of the priesthood of Jesus Christ, flowing through every member of His Body, and especially through those who stand in his name at the altar.”
The Mass concluded with a gathering outside, with refreshments served by the parishioners of the Cathedral.