Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

Holy Week is filled with rich liturgical experiences. The celebration of the Paschal Mystery, Holy Thursday, which is the presentation of the Last Supper; Good Friday, which commemorates the suffering, crucifixion and death of Jesus; and Holy Saturday, the Easter Vigil, which celebrates the Resurrection.            

There is one service that may not receive as much attention as others during Holy Week, but it is one that I do enjoy and that is the Chrism Mass. This celebration takes place in our archdiocese tonight, Tuesday, at 7:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, 812 N. Jackson St., Milwaukee. The cathedral is often referred to as the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

At this Mass, three oils will be presented, blessed and consecrated: the oil of catechumens, the oil of the sick and the sacred chrism. They will be used throughout the year at baptisms, confirmations, ordinations and the anointing of the sick. Every parish in the archdiocese will receive a supply of these oils, which they will use throughout the year. I often make reference to this fact at confirmation when I emphasize that this perfumed scented oil (chrism) that I will use in the confirmation rite comes from this moment during Holy Week.

It’s interesting to note that of the 10 people who will be carrying the chrism tonight, three are transitional deacons. This same chrism will be used in anointing the palms of these deacons as they become newly ordained priests.

This Mass is a recommitment of all ordained bishops, priests and deacons. It is a reminder of the promises taken at ordination. The lay faithful are also asked to make a commitment which witnesses that they share in the priesthood of Jesus Christ through the sacrament of baptism. They are asked three questions: “As God’s people, baptized and anointed in Christ, will you dedicate yourselves to spreading the Gospel message wherever you go?” “Will you continue to care for people in want and in need?” “Will you continue to live in unity with one another; one with your Bishop and one in the Body and Blood of Christ as you listen to Christ’s Word and share in the Eucharist?” 

I enjoy the Chrism Mass because every aspect of the life of the Church is represented. It truly presents the unity of the Church. As we enter Holy Week, our focus is on the person of Jesus, who gave His life so that we might live and use Him as a model to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.   

Note: This blog originally appeared as the March 26, 2013 "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these email messages, please click here.