.
Today isn’t just another day in Holy Week—it’s Holy Thursday, a day rich in meaning, tradition, and grace. But for me, it carries a special, once-in-a-lifetime significance: it’s my first time participating in the Chrism Mass and renewing my priestly vows as a newly ordained priest.
So, what exactly is the Chrism Mass?
Held in cathedrals around the world, the Chrism Mass is a beautiful liturgy where the bishop gathers with all the priests of the diocese. During this Mass, three sacred oils are blessed:
• The Oil of Catechumens (used in baptism),
• The Oil of the Sick (for anointing the sick), and
• The Sacred Chrism (used in baptism, confirmation, and ordination).
These oils will be used throughout the year in parishes—so in a way, today's Mass is a spiritual supply day for the entire Church!
But there's more.
The Chrism Mass is also when priests renew their priestly promises. Standing shoulder to shoulder with brother priests, we respond to the bishop's invitation to renew our commitment to serve God’s people with love, integrity, and joy. It's like a spiritual anniversary reminder—a chance to go back to the "why" of our vocation and rekindle the fire that led us here.
And for me—this year—it’s my first.
My first Chrism Mass.
My first renewal of vows.
My first Holy Thursday as a priest.
As the oils are lifted, and the promises echoed, I silently pray:
"He who calls me is faithful, and He will do it." (1 Thess 5:24)
May this Holy Thursday pour out fresh oil on every priest, every faithful heart, and may the spirit of service and joy be renewed in us all.
© Fada Prince Chidi Philip
No comments:
Post a Comment