Chrism Mass: Daily Mass Homily--Monday, March 30th, 2015

(Listen to this homily here).

            Right after Mass I will be driving to Duluth.  This evening I will be gathering with Bishop Paul Sirba and the priests of our diocese for the annual Chrism Mass at the Cathedral.  The Chrism Mass in our diocese takes place Monday of Holy Week and it reflects a powerful start to Holy Week.

            At this Mass Bishop Sirba will consecrate the oils we use for the sacraments for this year.  These include the Oil of the Sick (used in the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick), the Oil of Catechumens (used in Baptism) and the Oil of Chrism (used in Baptism, Confirmation and Ordination).  It is pretty cool to think that anytime someone is anointed, baptized, confirmed or ordained this year—no matter where in the diocese—we will all be using the same oil.

            Another powerful moment happens, especially for me as a priest.  Right after the homily, we will renew our priestly vows.  I took my vows for the diaconate on June 10^th, 2011 and to the priesthood on June 22^nd, 2012.  For you married couples, this would be similar to renewing your vows.  It is a very powerful moment for me to renew my commitment to the priesthood!

            Please pray for your priests, that we may be faithful to God and you.  Please pray for all who will be anointed, confirmed, baptized and ordained with the holy oils Bishop will consecrate this evening. 

            The Chrism Mass is a powerful experience—if you have some time this evening it would be worth the drive to Duluth!