On Thursday, April 14, we gather for the Chrism Mass, during which the Archbishop blesses the Oil of Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick, and consecrates the Sacred Chrism, for use in sacramental celebrations throughout the Church in Western Washington in the coming year.




At the beginning of Mass, Archbishop Sartain acknowledges the presence of Bishop Tyson, whom Pope Benedict XVI this week appointed as Bishop of Yakima.






Our youth Psalmist:  "Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord."


We were privileged to welcome Peter Cardinal Turkson, who preached at the Chrism Mass.  Cardinal Turkson, a native of Ghana, is the President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. 


An important part of the Chrism Mass is the priests' renewal of commitment to priestly service.  "Brothers and sisters," the Archbishop says, addressing the entire assembly, "Pray for your priests.  Ask the Lord to bless them with the fullness of his love, to help them be faithful ministers of Christ the High Priest."


The blessing of the oils is the center of the Chrism Mass. 




Newly ordained priest Father Francisco Cancino carries the oil for the Sacred Chrism.


The Archbishop breathes over the vessel of Sacred Chrism, praying that "all who are anointed with it may be inwardly transformed and come to share in eternal salvation."  The newly baptized, candidates for confirmation, priests at their ordination, and church buildings at their dedication, are anointed with the sweet-smelling Sacred Chrism.








In the Chapel after Mass, the Deacons of the Archdiocese
distribute the oils into small containers for each parish.