Chrism Mass at Westminster Cathedral

Photo: Mazur/cbcew.org.uk

Source: CBCEW/ICN

Around 2,000 people gathered in Westminster Cathedral today (Tuesday 15 April) for the Chrism Mass celebrated by Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster with hundreds of members of the Diocese of Westminster clergy.

In his homily, Cardinal Nichols said: "In this ceremony today, we celebrate the gifts of this priesthood in its different forms. We bless the chrism through which the priesthood of baptism is given, strengthened in confirmation.

"It is the calling of all the baptised, you my sisters and brothers, to make every day, every experience, an offering to God. As we offer ourselves to God, we also embrace all those we know and meet. They may not yet understand that this life is a gift of God and will find its fulfilment in God, through Jesus our Blessed Lord, the 'Alpha and Omega' of all life."

After the Cardinal's homily the priests renewed their vows, resolving to be more united with the Lord, promising to be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God and discharge faithfully all their duties which they "willingly and joyfully pledged oh the day of their ordination."

Representatives of the Medical Profession presented the Oil of the Sick, those preparing for Baptism, Confirmation and Ordination brought up the sacred oils to be Consecrated and Blessed.

In the Consecration ceremony Cardinal Vincent poured English rose balsam into the oil and mixed the chrism, which will be used in the Sacraments of Holy Orders, Baptism, Confirmation, and Anointing of the Sick.

The olive oil was sourced from the Holy Land by Zaytoun and gifted by a private donor, a Justice & Peace activist, concerned with how the Church can support those affected most by the blocks to the olive harvest caused by the conflict. Altogether three canisters containing nine litres each, of Chrism Oil were distributed to the parishes across the diocese for use over the coming year.

The Mass was a wonderful opportunity for parishioners to show their appreciation and gratitude to their Priests, for their tireless service. As they renewed their vows of commitment to priestly service, we are reminded of the countless ways clergy devote themselves to their parishes, often unseen and unsung.

LINKS

Watch a recording of the Chrism Mass: www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9vHmf_PTBI

Westminster Cathedral: https://westminstercathedral.org.uk/

Watch Masses live online at Westminster Cathedral: https://westminstercathedral.org.uk/spiritual-life/watch-a-mass/