“We took our Chrism Mass on the road this year,” Bishop Edward Malesic told those attending the livestreamed March 31 liturgy at St. Sebastian Church in Akron. He explained that inadequate parking near the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in downtown Cleveland prompted the decision.
The Chrism Mass, one of the Church’s most beautiful liturgies, traditionally is celebrated in the Diocese of Cleveland on the Tuesday of Holy Week. It recalls the institution of the priesthood. In addition, it is the liturgy during which the sacred oils used for sacramental purposes are blessed.
(See photo gallery above.)
“We’re here for the Church’s annual oil change,” the bishop quipped, referring to the blessing of the oils.
The church was filled with clergy, seminarians, members of the Knights of Columbus, Knights of Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem and the Order of Malta American Association, U.S.A., religious sisters, St. Sebastian staff and parishioners and other guests.
The bishop noted the importance of oil in history, both in Jewish culture and in the Church, explaining it is used to anoint sacred things and for healing – both spiritually and physically.
Blessed during the liturgy are the holy chrism, which is used to anoint priests at their ordination; the oil of catechumens, which is used for baptism; and the oil of the sick, which brings spiritual and physical comfort to the infirm.
In addition, the priests renew their priestly promises during the Mass. For some, it was an emotional moment as they reflected on their ordination and their priesthood.
“This is a special day for our diocese,” Bishop Malesic said. “I can’t wait to use some of this sacred chrism being consecrated today to anoint the six men whom I will ordain to the priesthood in May.” He noted the sacred oil is also used to anoint new bishops and altars when they are consecrated. The sacred oil “marks, in a particular way, things that belong to God,” the bishop added.
After the liturgy, representatives were invited to collect the sacred oils that will be used at their parishes for sacramental purposes throughout the year.
The priests and deacons also gathered for dinner and fellowship.
Click here to view the archived recording of the Chrism Mass.