Bengaluru: The Archdiocese of Bangalore led by Archbishop Most Rev Dr. Peter Machado and Rev Dr Bernard Moras, Archbishop Emeritus celebrated the Chrism Mass on Thursday 11th April, preceding the Holy Week.
Over 180 Priests, Deacons and representatives of the entire diocesan community came in a solemn procession and gathered around the altar at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral prayed and blessed the Holy Oils.
Archbishop Rev Dr Peter Machado in his homily explained the meaning and significance of the Oils. Oil of Sick, Oil of Catechumens and the Holy Chrism. The Cathedral was packed to capacity with huge turn out of the Religious and the lay faithful.
“The Chrism Mass reminds us of our oneness in Christ through Baptism and its holy anointing, made possible by the ministry of the Bishop and his priests. The Chrism mass is also a key moment in which the unity of the Archbishop with his priests is manifested and renewed. During the liturgy, the entire assembly is called to renew its baptismal promises; deacons and priests also renew their vow of obedience to the Archbishop and their commitment to serve God’s people,” the archbishop added.
As the Archbishop prayed, the priests present with him extend their right hands toward the Chrism, signifying their participation in his authority, through which Christ himself sanctifies and builds up his body, the Church. When the Chrism is blessed, the Bishop breathes over the open vessel which contains it.
At the end of the Chrism Mass, the Holy Oils are brought back to parishes of the diocese for use in the coming year.
Later, after the services, the newly built Presbytery was blessed and opened by Archbishop Most Rev Dr Peter Machado.