ST. MARY CATHEDRAL CELEBRATES CHRISM MASS

Prepared by DaliusLL

Photo by SOCCOM

Sandakan: The Chrism Mass was celebrated earlier at the St. Mary Cathedral on April 7 due to pastoral convenience. The Mass began with the entrance procession whilst the entire congregation sang the hymn Priestly People. More than 800 parishioners attended the Mass which was presided over by Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom and together with 9 Sandakan Diocesan Priests and 3 Indonesian visiting Priests concelebrating with him.

In his homily, Bishop Julius explained the significance of the Chrism Mass and related the importance of each consecration of the three oil needed for the administration of the sacraments; the oil of catechumens, the oil for the anointing of the sick and the oil of Holy Chrism. He highlighted that the priesthood of Christ not only attributed to the ordained only but also to all baptised people. “We shall all bear witness to Christ by virtue of baptism,” he said. He also reminded the faithful of their role as a gate that open up to the pathway of God to others, that is driven by the love of Christ and continues to serve with zeal.

After the homily, Bishop Julius led the priests in the renewal of their vows of obedience to the local bishop and their commitment in their ministry. This was followed by the procession where three jars containing the oil were brought forward by three Sandakan Diocese seminarians to be consecrated by the Bishop.

The Mass is not only a key moment in which the unity of the Bishop with his priests is manifested and renewed but also a moment for the faithful to support and pray for them.