Marking a pivotal moment in the liturgical calendar, the Chrism Mass, took place on Wednesday evening, 27 March 2024 at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Parramatta. This annual Mass witnessed the gathering of all the clergy of the Diocese to renew their priestly vows as well as the blessing of holy oils to be used throughout the Diocese for the coming year.
The atmosphere within the Cathedral was one of unity and anticipation. Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, led the ceremony blessing the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Sick, and the Holy Chrism Oil itself. Each oil holds a special significance. The Oil of Catechumens marks those preparing for adult baptism, the Oil of the Sick brings comfort and strength to the ailing, while the Holy Chrism Oil is used in key sacraments like baptism, confirmation, and ordination. This blessing serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of the sacraments in our faith journey.
Bishop Vincent blesses the Oil of Chrism during the 2024 Diocesan Chrism Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
In his homily, Bishop Vincent emphasised that the tradition of the Chrism Mass in Parramatta has always been oriented to whole People of God, and not to the clergy alone. He stated that the role of the clergy and laity is as the “whole People of God”, a “living Body of Christ” called to “heal wounds, warm hearts and offer closeness” to those in need.
“Tonight, we consecrate the sacred oils, which will be used for the ministry to those in need. In this way, we enact God’s intent to heal, restore, strengthen and transform their lives,” he said.
Bishop Vincent delivers the homily during the 2024 Diocesan Chrism Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“As priestly people, we are sent to consecrate and shape the world in accordance with the divine mandate. We cannot live our consecration fully, especially as ordained ministers, without getting ourselves immersed in the messiness of life, without going out and embracing those at the periphery.
“Our consecration pushes out into the deep. Let us commit ourselves to be the Church that strengthens the weak, heals the broken-hearted, lifts up the fallen and invites all to the communion of love,” said Bishop Vincent.
This invitation into the communion of love will be taken up by Isabella from Our Lady of the Rosary, St Marys. At the Easter Vigil this Saturday, Isabella will be baptised into the Catholic Church.
Just a few years ago she’d struggled deeply with mental health issues and a sense of isolation. The idea of joining the Church had crossed her mind, but she felt lost on how to take the first step. It was her boyfriend, Johanna, who offered his unwavering support. Together, they approached Fr Brendan Murphy, Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Rosary, inquiring about programs that could help Isabella connect with her faith. This simple act of seeking guidance led them to the Alpha course, which ultimately paved the way for Isabella’s journey through the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) program.
Catechumen Isabella from Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, St Marys, with her boyfriend Johanna following the 2024 Diocesan Chrism Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
Poised to take the first step of baptism, Isabella described the Chrism Mass as an overwhelming experience in the best possible way.
“I just thought it was beautiful. That’s all I could think of – beauty. The choir, the presentation, it was just so overwhelming, and I loved every second of it.
“I was speechless and in awe. I didn’t know what to expect, but I loved it,” she said.
A view of the 2024 Diocesan Chrism Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
When asked about a particular source of strength on her faith journey, Isabella said that beyond the unwavering support of Johanna, there is a quote that resonates deeply with her: “when something bad happens, God always has a greater outcome intended for you.”
These words, she explained, offered a profound sense of peace and hope. They fuelled her desire to become more involved in the Church community and connect with others on their own faith journeys.
Another attendee, Donnie, a young father, was touched by Bishop’s homily and the experience of his son, Jonathan, who was captivated by the unfamiliar beauty and mystery of the Chrism Mass.
Donnie, his wife Mei and son Johnathan present the Gifts of Offertory to Bishop Vincent during the 2024 Diocesan Chrism Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“I really resonated with Bishop Vincent’s homily, when he talked about these oils, and that this blessing is not just for the clergy, but for all the people of God,” said Donnie.
Donnie, his wife Mei and son Jonathan were asked to be in the procession which became a powerful act of family contribution. Holding his son close afterwards, a realisation struck Donnie – the future of the Church mattered. Inspired, he saw himself as a torchbearer, wanting to build a vibrant faith community where Jonathan and his generation could thrive.
“I thought in that moment, as I was carrying up the offertory procession with my wife Mei and Jonathan, this was our way of trying to see how we can participate in that broader mission.
“After the procession, I was holding Jonathan and I realised that maybe he was clinging onto me, but I was actually clinging on to him. And I was wondering – what will this church be moving forward for? Not just him specifically, but for generations ahead? And how am I contributing to the building of that church so it can be a place where Jonathan can find his flourishing and, and so can people who are his age or younger than myself?”
A young boy is seen during the 2024 Diocesan Chrism Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
Donnie encouraged young families to explore their own faith journeys and to find places, like the Chrism Mass, that can help them focus on those deeper questions and connect with the mystery of something larger than themselves.
The Chrism Mass was a night not just for blessing oils, but for reigniting the spirit of faith within all who attended. From those seeking solace to those seeking purpose, it offered a powerful reminder of the unifying and transformative potential of belief.
You can rewatch the Diocesan Chrism Mass on YouTube here and view images here or below:
