Even in the final hours leading up to the Sacred Triduum, this year’s Chrism Mass, celebrated by Bishop Alfred Schlert, was noteworthy for its solemnity. The Chrism Mass took place April 16, the Wednesday of Holy Week, as is customary in the Diocese of Allentown, at a filled Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown.
Approximately 200 priests and deacons assisted at the Chrism Mass, a liturgy that in most dioceses often draws the largest gathering of clergy in any given year.
“It’s interesting to note that here present in the Cathedral today is really the whole Church,” said Bishop Schlert. “We have priests, deacons, consecrated religious, seminarians, laity, a bishop – the whole Church, gathered as one in prayer, and we give thanks to God so much for this.”
Taking place during the Chrism Mass were both the blessing of the Holy Oils that will be used throughout the year in the Anointing of the Sick and in prebaptismal anointings, and the consecration of the Holy Chrism that will be employed in the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. By virtue of their divine vocation, the gathered priests acted as cooperators with the Bishop in consecrating the Holy Chrism.
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Chrism Mass Celebrates Priests Bringing Christ’s Presence into the World - AD Today
Even in the final hours leading up to the Sacred Triduum, this year’s Chrism Mass, celebrated by Bishop Alfred Schlert, was noteworthy for its solemnity. The Chrism Mass took place April 16, the Wednesday of Holy Week, as is customary … Continue reading
