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Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough

Chrism Mass

Chrism Mass

The Chrism Mass is a major liturgical celebration in the Roman Catholic Church where the bishop consecrates and blesses the sacred oils used for sacraments throughout the diocese for the coming year.

Oils at the Chrism Mass in a Catholic Parish

The Chrism Mass is traditionally celebrated during Holy Week.

Who Celebrates

  • Celebrant: The diocesan bishop presides over the liturgy at the cathedral.
  • Concelebrants: Concelebrated with priests from across the diocese.
  • Attendees: Attended by deacons, religious, and lay representatives from local parishes to represent the entire local Church.

Priestly Promises to the Bishop

  • Renewal: Following the homily, the priests stand before the bishop and renew their commitment to their ordination promises.
  • Commitment: They resolve to be faithful stewards of the sacraments, closely united with Christ, and obedient to their bishop.
  • Community Prayer: The bishop then asks the congregation to pray for their priests and for the bishop himself.

The Blessing and Purpose of the Oils

During the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the bishop blesses or consecrates three distinct oils:
  • Oil of the Sick (Oleum Infirmorum):
      • Blessing: Blessed by the bishop.
      • Purpose: Used in the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick to bring physical healing, spiritual strength, and comfort to those who are seriously ill or elderly. 

  • Oil of Catechumens (Oleum Catechumenorum):
      • Blessing: Blessed by the bishop.
      • Purpose: Used to anoint those preparing for Baptism, strengthening them to renounce sin and the devil before receiving the sacrament. 

  • Sacred Chrism (Sanctum Chrisma):
      • Blessing: Consecrated (mixed with olive oil and fragrant balsam, then breathed upon by the bishop as a sign of the Holy Spirit).
      • Purpose: Used in Baptism (anointing the crown of the head), Confirmation (sealing the forehead), Holy Orders (anointing the hands of priests and heads of bishops), and the dedication of new churches and altars. 

Distribution to Parishes

  • Collection: After Mass, the newly blessed and consecrated oils are poured into smaller, designated vessels or kits brought by representatives from each parish.
  • Transport: Parish priests or representatives take these vessels back to their local churches.
  • Storage: The old oils from the previous year are disposed of properly (usually burned or buried), and the new oils are stored in the parish ambry (a secure cabinet in the church) for sacramental use throughout the year.