Bishop blesses sacred oils during Chrism Mass held at Cathedral

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
April 5, 2007

Oils to be used for sacraments and sacred ceremonies in parishes of the Diocese of Sioux City throughout the year were blessed by Bishop R. Walker Nickless at the Chrism Mass held April 2 at the Cathedral of the Epiphany in Sioux City. The Mass was also used as an occasion for diocesan priests to renew their commitment to Christ-like service.

In opening comments, the bishop explained the significance of the liturgy to the people.

"Today we will consecrate the sacred oil of chrism and bless the oil of the sick and the oil of catechumens," said Bishop Nickless. "The chrism is used to anoint the newly baptized, to seal the candidates for confirmation, and to anoint the hands of presbyters and the heads of bishops at their ordinations. The oil of catechumens is used in the preparation of catechumens for their baptism."

The diocese's head shepherd also served as homilist for the Mass.

"This Mass is a special one for the diocese and especially for our priests," said Bishop Nickless. "Two things happen today, on this first Monday of the holiest week of the year. First, the oils are blessed and the sacred chrism is consecrated. Second, the priests will renew their priestly commitments and you, the faithful, will pray for them and me as bishop."

The bishop told those gathered that the priests share in his responsibility to build up, sanctify and govern the people of God.

"The Office of Bishop is an honor that makes one humble and overwhelmed by all that is expected. I am deeply grateful for the priests who help me in my mission as bishop and shepherd," he said.

He referred to the second reading, Revelations 1:5-8, that centered on the concept that no one takes on the role of the priest on his own. God calls men to the priesthood.

While everyone shares in the mission of Christ, the bishop said that through the readings, "particularly today, the Lord is speaking to us priests."

Bishop Nickless called the diocesan priests his chief collaborators, helpers in his role as bishop.

He then spoke of some of the obligations of a diocesan bishop such as preaching, catechesis of the faithful, overseeing priests and seminarians, nurturing Christian unity, showing care for the missions and responsibility for the goods and properties of the diocese. These are just a few of his duties, but Bishop Nickless said that more than anything else he was charged with the task to grow in holiness.

While the numerous and varied duties may seem overwhelming, the bishop stressed the fact that it was reassuring to know that he is not alone.

Speaking to the priests, Bishop Nickless said, "Today I want to thank you, my brothers, from the bottom of my heart for all that you do. I value your friendship and hope that we continue to grow in love with one another. I value your commitment and your dedication to your work as priests. I affirm and value your holiness and your desire to grow closer to God through your celibate lives."

The Renewal of Commitment to Priestly Service followed the homily. The bishop asked the priests a series of questions relating to their commitment to become more Christ-like and selfless in their ministry.

Bishop Nickless then asked the people to pray for the priests.

"Ask the Lord to bless them with the fullness of his love, to help them be faithful ministers of Christ the high priest, so that they will be able to lead you to him, the fountain of salvation," said the bishop. "Pray also for me, that despite my own unworthiness I may faithfully fulfill the office of the apostle which Jesus Christ has entrusted to me."

During the offertory, along with gifts of bread and wine, three vessels containing the oils were presented to the bishop.

The oil of the sick was blessed by Bishop Nickless during the Eucharistic prayer. He blessed the oil of catechumens and consecrated the sacred chrism following Communion.

After blessing the oil of catechumens, the bishop poured the balsam into the chrism and breathed into the vessel, asking God to fill it with the power of the Holy Spirit.

"Make this chrism a sign of life and salvation for those who are to be born again in the waters of baptism. Wash away the evil they have inherited from sinful Adam, and when they are anointed with this holy oil make them temples of your glory, radiant with the goodness of life that has its source in you," prayed the bishop.

Members of the chancery staff helped to distribute the oils to parish representatives following the Mass.