Greetings on this the Holy Thursday – Chrism Mass
Readings: Isaiah 61:1-3a, 6a, 8b-9; Psalm 89:21-22, 25 and 27; Revelation 1:5-8; Luke 4:16-21
Summary
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to bring glad tidings to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives
and recovery of sight to the blind,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.
Reflection
Is there no balm in Gilead, no healer there? Why does new flesh not grow over the wound of the daughter of my people? (Jer 8:22). Yes! Jesus, Bishop and the People of God with the gifts of the oils.
He said to them, “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.”
Personal Reflection
The oils blessed once per year in a large volume is distributed among the 54 parishes of the Diocese of Palm Beach. We trace the early versions of the Chrism Mass by way of the Apostolic Tradition. The artifact, The Apostolic Tradition [ca. A.D. 215]. Within the book instructions on ordaining a bishop, a deacon, confessors and presbyters (priests), prayers over the waters (holy water), infant baptism, and the blessing of oils
1. Oil of Thanksgiving (SC)
2. Oil of Exorcism (OC)
- Oil of the Infirm (OI)
- Oil of the Catechumen (OC or OS)
- Sacred Chrism (SC)
Jesus has given many gifts to express the divine love. The Chrism Mass oils remind us that at every phase of our life (pre-baptism, baptism and in our infirmity) we are give aid and comfort by the Lord. Here is an educational page: https://www.simplycatholic.com/what-are-holy-oils/
Sacred Readings Full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/041725-chrism.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry