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Holy Oils Blessed at Chrism Mass
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April 5, 2023The Chrism Mass was held in Corpus Christi Cathedral on Tuesday, April 4. Bishop Michael Mulvey celebrated this mass with nearly every priest from the Diocese of Corpus Christi. The Mass began as all the priests processed to the altar, ahead of the bishop, and seated themselves on the altar in a semi-circle.
“We come together not as individuals or members of a particular parish,” said Bishop Mulvey, “but rather as a people of God, a church, making us the body of Christ.” He acknowledged those who were baptized and those wishing to be baptized this Easter.
Many people were in attendance, with individuals who had made it a priority to be present for the Mass and the blessing of the holy oils: SOLT sisters, Young Catholic Adult members, employees of the diocese, and members of other parishes. Bishop Mulvey reminded the crowd of the words in Ephesians, chapter four: “‘I urge you to live worthy of the calling you have received. Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Keep the unity of the spirit with the bond of peace... One Lord, one faith, one baptism.’”
The oils Bishop Mulvey consecrated during the yearly Chrism Mass are incorporated into liturgical life throughout the year. He explained that to be consecrated is to be set apart as holy.
“We must remember not to separate ourselves from the world, but from the evils of the world. We are called to be holy people. St. Paul calls us saints. Despite our shortcomings, we are consecrated. A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation,” Bishop Mulvey said, quoting 1 Peter 2:9.
He explained the different types and purposes of each oil before blessing them. The oil of anointing reminds us of the Passion of Christ, and how we share in the priesthood of Jesus. The anointing of the sick strengthens us and forgives our sins. It can restore health, and it prepares us for eternal life.
“Let us always call for the priest who anoints with the oil of the sick to accompany us in this journey,” he said.
The words said in the anointing point us to the power of Christ. During Baptism, the oil is administered after the water has been poured over the head. The oil used in Confirmation reminds of who we are and who lives in us, and we receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “As we look at our society, we need the presence of the Holy Spirit. Be sealed in the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Bishop Mulvey said.
Bishop reminded his brother priests, “Do not forget where you’re from, the people you’ve come from. The Lord came to serve and not to be served. Be the true spirit of Jesus Christ.”
