Hartford, Connecticut, Archbishop Christopher Coyne, former bishop of Burlington, returned to Vermont to celebrate the Chrism Mass March 25 at the Cathedral of St. Joseph.

Hundreds of people — including most of the priests of the diocese — attended the Mass at which the priests renewed their priestly promises, and the holy oils that will be used in the sacramental life of the Church in the coming year were blessed and distributed to parishes.

The diocese has been without a bishop since last year when the archbishop was installed in Hartford as coadjutor.

“It’s always wonderful to be with you again,” he told the congregation.

In his homily, Archbishop Coyne emphasized that although the cathedra — the bishop’s seat — has not yet been filled, the diocese still is united with the Chair of St. Peter and the Church of Rome. The Church in Vermont is still united as symbolized by the priests of the diocese celebrating Mass together.

“Today we are renewed in our faith and called to share the Good News,” he said.

The priests of the diocese stood before the archbishop and renewed the promises they made at their ordination. They resolved to be “faithful stewards of the mysteries of God in the Holy Eucharist” and “discharge the sacred office of teaching … not seeking any gain, but moved only by zeal for souls.”

During the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the sacred oils were blessed. Containers holding the three oils – Oil of the Sick, Oil of the Catechumens, and the Sacred Chrism – as well as the perfume that is mixed into the Sacred Chrism to give it its rich aroma – were presented by deacons serving in the diocese.

The Oil of the Sick was blessed for the healing of body, mind, and spirit. The Oil of Catechumens was blessed for the anointing of those preparing for baptism. Through this anointing, they are strengthened by Christ to resist the power of evil in all its forms. The Holy Chrism was consecrated by the archbishop and priests of the diocese to anoint infants after baptism, those who are to be confirmed, and bishops and priests at their ordination. It is also used to anoint altars and churches at the time of their dedication.

After the Mass, the oils were distributed and brought back to all the churches in the diocese.

“This annual Mass traditionally is celebrated on the morning of Holy Thursday but (as is done in most dioceses in the United States) can be moved to another time around Easter,” explained Josh Perry, director of the Office of Worship for the Diocese of Burlington.

Among those at the Chrism Mass was Susan Buonincontro of St. Ambrose Parish in Bristol. “It was lovely, very meaningful” she said of the Mass. “I loved the ritual of it. It was heartwarming to see all the priests together.”

Among those in attendance was a Knights of Columbus Honor Guard representing assemblies of Burlington, Milton, South Burlington, and St. Albans.

 

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