02/04/2026
Archdiocese of Palo, celebrate the Chrism Mass and Renewal of Priestly Vows on (Holy Thursday) at the Palo Metropolitan Cathedral to be presided by his Excellency, Most. Rev. John F. Du, D.D., the Archbishop of Palo.
WHAT IS CHRISM MASS?
The Chrism Mass, which [the Bishop] concelebrates with Priests from various regions of the diocese and during which he consecrates the sacred Chrism and blesses the other oils, is among the principal manifestations of the fullness of the Bishop's Priesthood and is considered to be a sign of the close bond of the Priests with him. For it is with the sacred Chrism consecrated by the Bishop that the newly baptized are anointed and those to be confirmed are signed. It is with the Oil of Catechumens that catechumens are prepared and disposed for Baptism. Finally it is with the Oil of the Sick that those who are ill are comforted in their infirmity.
— The Order of Blessing the Oil of Catechumens and of the Sick and of Consecrating the Chrism (OBO), no. 1
It is traditionally held on Holy Thursday (Morning) or earlier day near Easter, before Triduum at the diocese's catherdral church.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING CHRISM MASS?
1. The Local Bishop blesses the Chrism (for Baptism and Confirmation) and other Holy Oils (for catechumens and Anointing of the Sick) and distributes them to the parishes to be used over the next year
2. Priests in the diocese gathers in solidarity with their local bishop and renew their commitment to priestly service.
3. The Congregation prays for those who serve the church.
WHY IS CHRISM MASS IMPORTANT?
The Chrism Mass reminds us of our oneness in Christ through Baptism and its holy anointing, made possible by the ministry of the archbishop and his priests. The Chrism Mass is also a key moment in which the unity of the archbishop with his priests (together, they form the presbyterate) is manifested and renewed.
