Holy Thursday at St Mary's Cathedral

By Catholic Communications, Sydney Archdiocese

8 April 2004

10.30am – Chrism Mass

The blessing of Sacramental oils will take place at the annual Chrism Mass to be celebrated by Archbishop of Sydney, Cardinal George Pell on Holy Thursday morning at 10.30am . Cardinal Pell will lead a procession of priests from all the parishes in Sydney .

The Sacramental oils are used in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Ordination as well as the Anointing of the Sick and dying.

Parish priests from throughout the Archdiocese of Sydney will gather for this ceremony. Each priest will then take his own set of oils back to his parish for use during the coming liturgical year.

The oil of catechumens (Greek word meaning ‘person under instruction') symbolises strength and power over evil and is used during Baptism.

The oil of chrism (Greek word meaning ‘oil of blessing') is used to show God's favour at Baptism, in Confirmation, at the ordination of Priests and the blessing of a church.

The oil of the Sick symbolises healing and is used for the anointing of the sick.

6.30pm – Mass of the Lord's Supper

The Mass of the Lord's Supper, commemorating Jesus' last meal with his apostles, marks the beginning of the three days of Easter celebrations, the Easter Triduum.

During the mass, Cardinal Pell will wash the feet of members of the congregation as Jesus did to signify that he came as a servant to the world.

At the conclusion of the Mass the Blessed Sacrament is transferred to the altar of repose. Private adoration continues till 9pm .

For more information, contact: Marita Franklin , Catholic Communications, phone 0419 243 957.