Chrism Mass and Priesthood day was celebrated at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima on March 25.
Kohima, March 26 (MExN): The Chrism Mass and Priesthood day was celebrated on March 25 at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima.
Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima officiated the Eucharistic celebration which was concelebrated by more than 120 priests from all over the diocese of Kohima.
A press release from Secretary to Bishop informed that it is an annual event where all the priests working in the diocese unites with the bishop to assure allegiance to the episcopate. Bishop James Thoppil blessed three urns of oil: oil of the catechumens, oil of the chrism and oil of the sick.
It mentioned that two important events take place during the Chrism Mass- the preparation, blessing of the oil and renewal of promises by the priests. The blessing and distribution of oils is central to the Catholic Church’s sacraments and rites, it added. Chrism Mass is traditionally associated with Holy Thursday, with the blessing of the oils taking place at a morning mass followed by an evening mass recalling Jesus’ institution of the priesthood and Eucharist at the Last Supper. The oil of catechumens is used to bless those who are about to be baptized; the oil of chrism is used in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Holy orders. The oil of the sick is used in the sacrament of anointing of the sick.
The Bishop greeted and thanked all the priests and emphasized on the unity of the presbyterate. He pointed out that the anointing is meant in turn to anoint God’s faithful people as they are anointed for the poor, for prisoners, for the oppressed. He further emphasized on being a good priest stating that “A good priest can be recognized by the way his people are anointed by word and ministry.”
We need to “go out” where there is suffering, bloodshed, blindness that longs for sight and prisons of selfishness and materials that longs for freedom, the Bishop added.
Appreciating the CAN, NCWA and NCYM, the apex bodies for the initiatives taken and their services in the diocese, the Bishop also thanked and appreciated all priests for their faithfulness and commitment to the ministry and conveyed priesthood day greetings to them.
The Catholic Association of Nagaland organized the felicitation programme.
