Chrism Mass
The renewal of Priestly promises and blessing of the oils

Wednesday, 16th April 2025

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The Chrism Mass is one of the principal expressions of the fullness of the Bishop's priesthood and signifies the close unity of the priests with him. During the Mass, which he concelebrates with as many priests from the diocese as can possibly be present, the Bishop consecrates the Chrism and blesses the other oils.

The Christian Liturgy has assimilated this Old Testament usage of anointing kings, priests and prophets with consecratory oils because the name Christ, whom they prefigured, means "the anointed one of the Lord"

Chrism is a sign: by baptism Christians are plunged into the paschal mystery of Christ; they die with him, are buried with, and rise with, him; they are sharers in his royal and prophetic priesthood, By confirmation Christians receive the spiritual anointing of the Spirit, which is given to them.

By the oil of catechumens the effect of the baptismal exorcisms is extended. Before they go to the font of life to be reborn, the candidates for baptism are strengthened to renounce sin and the devil.

By the use of the oil of the sick, to which St James is a witness, the sick receive a remedy for the illness of mind and body, so that they may have strength to bear suffering, resist evil and obtain the forgiveness of sins.

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