By Didiroy Joneh / KOMSOS
KENINGAU — Annually, during the Chrism Mass, priests across the Diocese of Keningau convene with the bishop at Dataran Keuskupan Keningau, renewing their priestly vows and committing anew to deepen their unity with Jesus and to be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God. This year’s Chrism Mass was held on March 26.
Bishop Cornelius Piong began his homily by explaining the significance of the Chrism Mass as a cherished tradition of the Church. “The Chrism Mass serves as a reminder of God as the creator of the Eucharist, and to ensure the perpetuity of the Eucharist, God established the priesthood. We express our gratitude for Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist, a sacrament perpetually celebrated and administered by our priests.”
He continued, addressing the congregation, “Our gathering at the Chrism Mass transcends the blessing of the oils. I am convinced that your presence here, participating in this celebration, stems from a deep appreciation and gratitude for your priests!”
The bishop urged the congregation to pray earnestly for priests, saying, “Despite our ordination, we remain human — flesh and blood. This reality underscores our need for your prayers and support. Please, include us, your priests, in your daily prayers, asking for our steadfast service in a spirit of unity. Primarily, pray for our communion with Jesus. It is our belief that our capacity for unity and desire to unite springs from our relationship with Jesus (John 15:4-5). Without a connection to Jesus, the source of our unity and faithfulness, priests cannot truly live in harmony within families and communities.
“In our ministry, let us constantly reflect on Jesus’ question: ‘What are you looking for?’ By answering this question, we can determine who we serve. Do we serve Jesus first or do we put our own matters first?
“Only when we are always in union with Jesus can we serve others without counting the cost, whatever our role in ministry,” said the prelate.
Concluding his homily, the bishop emphasised, “As individuals, we are each created in the image and likeness of God.
“However, as members of the Body of Christ, it is through our unity with one another in Christ that salvation is found. In our union with Christ, we forge a synodal Church, journeying together—laity, pastors, and bishop—towards Christ the Lord.”
