Bishop blesses sacred oils during Chrism Mass at Cathedral March 17

By KATIE LEFEBVRE, Globe staff reporter
March 20, 2008

Sacred oils to be used for sacraments and sacred ceremonies in parishes of the Diocese of Sioux City throughout the year were blessed March 17 at the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of the Epiphany. The Mass was also used as an occasion for diocesan priests to renew their commitment to Christ-like service.

In opening comments, the bishop thanked everyone for their presence at Mass.

"My brothers and sisters we gather on this day during the holy season of Lent to celebrate the goodness of the Lord through all of us," said Bishop Nickless. "Today we celebrate and consecrate the Holy Chrism and bless the oil of the sick and the oil of catechumens. For those among us who are priests we also gather today to renew our commitment to faithfully serve Christ and his church."

As part of the homily, the bishop explained the significance of each of the oils that would be blessed during the Mass.

"Oil, like the other signs of bread, wine and water, is a sacramental sign that enables us to share in the grace of God as we celebrate the sacraments," said Bishop Nickless.

He pointed out that there were many references to oil and being anointed in the readings for the Mass.

"As the oils are brought forth and blessed today, I encourage all of us to reflect on the ways that it will be used throughout the year in the life of the church," said the bishop.

The oil of the sick is used during the sacrament of anointing of the sick. He wanted the congregation to reflect on who might be anointed by this oil.

"As I bless this oil, I will say the words, 'May this oil be a remedy for all who are anointed with it. Heal them in body, in soul and in spirit,'" said Bishop Nickless.

The oil of catechumens is used in baptism and the preparation of catechumens for their baptism.

The sacred oil of chrism is used to seal candidates for confirmation and to anoint the hands of presbyters and the heads of bishops at their ordinations.

"We remember and pray for in a special way the young people who will be confirmed this year," said the bishop. "Those anointed with this sacred chrism will be given the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit."

Bishop Nickless was anointed with the sacred chrism during his ordination two years ago. This June, he noted, Jeremy Wind and Shane Deman will be anointed with sacred chrism when he ordains them priests.

He then had a few words for his brother priests. He thanked them for joining him at the Chrism Mass.

"We gather as one body of priests to renew our priestly commitment and to promise once again that we will be worthy of the gift of priesthood that God has given us," said the bishop. "What a blessing in our lives to be called and chosen to be ordained as priests of Jesus Christ."

He thanked the priests for their ministry - celebration of the sacraments, preparation of homilies, outreach to the sick, young and elderly, faithfulness to praying the Liturgy of the Hours and support and prayers for him.

"May Christ bless all our priests and fill us with strength and help us overcome our weaknesses with his grace," said Bishop Nickless.

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.

"The priests are here today, one with their bishop, to renew their priestly promises. They do so asking for the continued prayers and support of all of you who join us at Mass today," said the bishop.

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.

"Lord God, bless this oil and give wisdom and strength to all who are anointed with it in preparation for their baptism," prayed the bishop.

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