By Ivy Chai
KUCHING — The Mass of the Chrism which the Bishop of every diocese traditionally concelebrates with his priests throughout the diocese on Holy Thursday, was held a day earlier for priests in the Archdiocese of Kuching.
On the Wednesday morning of 5 April, Kuching priests attended a recollection to prepare for the evening Chrism Mass when they would renew their commitment made at their ordination. This was also to enable them to celebrate the Easter Triduum starting on Thursday, with their parish community.
Among the concelebrants of the Chrism Mass presided by Archbishop Simon Poh were Archbishops Emeriti Peter Chung and John Ha. Archbishop Simon, after blessing the congregation with the Book of Gospel, explained that the word ‘chrism’ is derived from the Greek word ‘chrisma’ which means ‘anointing’.
Blessing and Consecration of Holy Oils
At the Mass, the Oils of the Sick and Catechumens were blessed, and the Oil of Chrism was consecrated. The oils of the Chrism and Catechumens are used for the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Order, while the oil of the Sick is used for the anointing of the sick.
The consecration of the Chrism Oil sets it apart from the other oils, hence its importance. The prelate explained that, “Chrism consecrates everyone who receives it” and “that’s why the Mass is called ‘Chrism Mass’.” This Mass also celebrates the close bond between the Bishop and his priests as they share his priestly ministry.
Renewal of Priestly Commitment
Archbishop Simon Poh added that a priest’s commitment is “to be able to serve you in the sacraments, closely linked with these oils, (for) baptism, confirmation, and in particular anointing of the sick, together with communion of the sick and dying.”
“The Chrism Mass celebrates our very identity as the Chosen People of God. Bishops, priests and lay people together as a local church or in today’s term, we call Synodal Church, journeying together as one community of faith,” Archbishop Simon said.
He humbly asked for prayers for himself and his priests as they are his closest collaborators. He asked the Lord to give the Archdiocese good pastors to serve in the parishes. “We are all humans, but with your understanding, we can be better pastors to serve you. So, pray to the Lord of the harvest to give shepherds after his own heart.”
Archbishop Simon added that all Catholics by our baptism, “are set apart and sent forth for mission to bring about Christ’s mercy, love and hope to all people in our family, society and wherever we are.”
The Chrism Mass ended with the distribution of the Holy Oils to the rectors to administer to the Catholics in their community, and a final blessing from the Archbishop.
