The Catholic Diocese of Ho has slated Tuesday 4th April 2023 to celebrate the 2023 Chrism Mass.
The Mass will be presided over by the Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu SVD Bishop of Ho and Vice President of the Ghana Catholic Bishop Conference.
It is expected to take place at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Ho Bankoe at 9am.
Chrism Mass is a special liturgical celebration in the Catholic Church that usually takes place during Holy Week, typically on Holy Thursday, the day before Good Friday.
During this Mass, the bishop blesses three different oils – the oil of the sick, the oil of catechumens, and the holy chrism – which are used in various sacraments and liturgical celebrations throughout the year.
The oil of the sick is used in the sacrament of the anointing of the sick, which is administered to those who are seriously ill or facing surgery.
The oil of catechumens is used in the sacrament of baptism, to anoint the catechumen or candidate for baptism, symbolizing their readiness for the new life in Christ. The holy chrism, on the other hand, is used in several sacraments, including baptism, confirmation, and holy orders.
During the Chrism Mass, the bishop blesses these oils and then distributes them to the priests and deacons of the diocese, who will then use them throughout the year in their ministry to the faithful. The oils are kept in special containers called chrismatories, which are typically kept in the sanctuary of the church.
The Chrism Mass is significant for Catholics because it is a visible sign of the unity of the Church, with the bishop, priests, and deacons all coming together to celebrate and renew their commitment to serve God and His people. The blessing of the oils symbolizes the power of the Holy Spirit working through the sacraments, which are essential for the spiritual life of the faithful.
