Southwark: Oil for Chrism Mass bought from Holy Land

The Archdiocese of Southwark has purchased the olive oil for the Chrism Mass from the Holy Land, to support Christians in the birthplace of the Lord Jesus.

As the conflict in the Holy Land continues, solidarity with those trying to make a living there is more important than ever. Twenty litres of olive oil have been purchased by the Archdiocese via St George's Cathedral. It was produced by a Christian family who are part of Canaan Fair Trade - an organisation which works with family farms spanned across 43 different villages in the Holy Land.

The Archbishop of Southwark, Most Rev John Wilson said: "The conflict in the Holy Land continues to devastate lives, with families losing their homes and their loved ones, and their livelihoods. The Church seeks to be part of the solution in working for peace. Supporting Christians in the Holy Land, by buying the olive oil they produce, is a small step. It is, however, an important one. Wherever we can, we must try to help our brothers and sisters, standing in solidarity with them so they know they are not abandoned.

The Holy Land is the birth-place of the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus. It is to the Lord we must turn to and pray for lasting peace. I continue to pray every day for peace in the Holy Land and add my voice to all those calling for a just and peaceful lasting solution."

Archbishop John Wilson will bless the Oil at the Chrism Mass at St George's Cathedral on Wednesday 27 March.

St George's Cathedral Dean, Canon Michael Branch, who oversaw the purchase of the Oil said: "Our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land have our full solidarity and are always in our prayers. That is why it felt poignant to support them by buying this Oil, while their lives have been turned upside down by conflict."

Chrism Oil is made of olive oil, which is scented with perfume. Once blessed, the Oil will be used throughout the Archdiocese of Southwark for baptisms, confirmation, holy orders and consecrations. Oil for Catechumens (those preparing for baptism) and Oil for Anointing the Sick will also be blessed for use in parishes and chaplaincies."

For details of all th Holy Week and Easter liturgies at St George's Cathedral, see:
www.stgeorgescathedral.org.uk/news/holy-week-easter-2024/