(Re)Discover the Chrism Mass

by Karen Dill, Spiritual Director

I HAD BEEN CATHOLIC A LONG TIME BEFORE I EVER ATTENDED A CHRISM MASS. In my way of distorted thinking, Holy Week was already full of worship opportunities so one more event was almost an overload. Mea culpa! Finally, two years ago one of my more devout friends strongly encouraged me to take time out of my busy schedule and experience this wonderful service. So I sped downtown and grabbed one of the last seats in the back of the crowded Cathedral right before the action began that Tuesday night.

Oh, what a night! First the booming sound of the organ accompanied by the blare of trumpets and the hymns of the choir and congregation as special groups began to process down the center aisle: the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, the Knights of Columbus, the deacons of the diocese, the sisters of local religious orders, our priests, and seminarians. Finally, the Bishop himself entered, flanked by altar servers waving incense- the bells and the smells of my Catholic faith. I instantly regretted all those years I had missed!

And that was just the beginning! As the liturgy continued, all the priests were asked to renew their vows. My eyes teared up as I watched the many men who had ministered to me and my family in special ways once again committing themselves to serving us. Then we were asked to renew our own baptismal vows. I said a silent prayer of thanksgiving that I was a member of this family, this faith.

Then the highlight of the liturgy—the blessing of the oils. These oils (also called “myrrh”) would be used three ways in sacraments throughout the year: to anoint the newly baptized; to sign the confirmed; and to anoint the sick. They are the

signs of the presence of the Holy Spirit and the gifts He brings with Him – power, healing, wisdom, new birth. Before the year was over, I would be receiving this oil myself as my parish priest anointed me before knee surgery. My newest grandchild would be blessed with it at his baptism. Where would our sacraments be without this powerful reminder of God’s presence and unfailing love?

As I looked around the pews, I recognized so many familiar faces. Our Catholic community is tightly knit. I felt an affectionate bond with so many people in attendance that night. Friends who had prayed with me and for me. Friends who had strengthened my relationship with Jesus just by being there for me when I needed them. The very atmosphere was rich with His nearness.

I left Mass that evening on a spiritual high. During the next few days, I would experience the emotional pain of walking with Jesus through His passion and His crucifixion. I began to realize how much the Chrism Mass had strengthened my spiritual fortitude, how I needed that boost to dive more deeply into the sorrow that would follow. Then on Easter morning, the joy of His Resurrection punctuated the gratitude and solidarity with my fellow worshipers I had felt the previous Tuesday.

I encourage you—don’t miss this beautiful entrance into Holy Week. Admission is free, but get there early if you want a good seat! If you can’t attend in person, the Mass is livestreamed on the St. John Berchmans Facebook page and website. You will miss the fragrance of incense that way, but you will still experience the impact of this special celebration.