On Wednesday 16 April, Bishop James Curry, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Westminster, celebrated the Chrism Mass at Plymouth Cathedral, joined by clergy and parishioners from across the Diocese of Plymouth.
At the Mass, traditionally held during Holy Week, the sacred Holy Oils used in the Sacraments of Holy Orders, Baptism, Confirmation, and Anointing of the Sick were consecrated and blessed. These are then distributed to the parishes across the diocese for use over the coming year.
During the Mass, our priests renewed their vows of commitment to priestly service. The Mass provided an opportunity to show appreciation and gratitude to our priests, for their tireless service.
Bishop James encouraged everyone to ‘take courage’, the Risen Lord, the Alpha and the Omega, is with us, really and truly present. God can bring from what seems lifeless, an empty tomb, something new. He invited everyone to allow the Lord’s loving kindness to make us steadfast in faith and to show faith, hope and loving concern for each other.
Bishop James reminded us that we are all called to serve as Christ’s faithful people. He thanked the priests of the diocese for the care, nourishment and hope they give to people in parishes, chaplaincies and every context where priestly service is given in this diocese.
You can watch a recording of the Chrism Mass and hear Bishop James’ full homily here.