Daily Catholic Lectio
Thu, 17 April ‘25
(moveable as per the need)
Mass of the Holy Chrism
Isaiah 61:1-3a, 6a, 8b-9. Psalm 89:21-22, 25 and 27. Luke 4:16-21
You are My Father, My God, My Rock of Salvation!
Introduction:
Greetings: To our diocesan clergy and gathered religious communities—this is your feast day. Thank you for your presence.
Gratitude: To all the faithful, clergy, and religious for your support and cooperation.
Today’s Significance:
Today holds importance at two levels:
(a) Liturgical significance
(b) Pastoral significance
(a) Liturgical Significance
(1) Blessing of the Holy Oils
Chrism Oil: Symbolizes Christ and is used in Baptism, Confirmation, Priestly Ordination, Episcopal Consecration, and the Dedication of new altars and churches.
Oil of the Catechumens: Anoints those preparing for Baptism, signifying strength and protection.
Oil of the Sick: Used in the Anointing of the Sick, signifying healing and comfort.
(2) Unity in the Church
Under the bishop’s leadership, priests, religious, and the faithful come together, symbolizing the unity of the local Church (Diocese).
(3) Renewal of Priestly Promises
Before the bishop and the faithful, priests renew their priestly promises, reaffirming their commitment to ministry.
(4) Link to Holy Week and Maundy Thursday
Traditionally celebrated on Maundy Thursday, the day when Christ instituted the priesthood.
This Mass also carries the themes of Eucharist, the commandment of love, and service.
(b) Pastoral Significance
(1) Strengthening Priestly Identity
The renewal of priestly promises is a self-recommitment—a reaffirmation of the priestly identity and mission.
(2) Ministry of Healing and Blessing
The Holy Oils remind us of our calling—to bring healing, strength, and sanctification through the sacraments.
(3) Strengthening the Church’s Unity and Mission
The gathering of clergy and faithful reminds us of our Christian identity and collective mission as the People of God.
(4) Renewal and Transformation
The joy of Chrism Mass encourages us to embrace new life in Christ’s Resurrection. “Old things pass away, new things are born.” Sin fades, salvation flourishes.
What Do Today’s Readings Teach Us?
(a) First Reading: “Oil of Gladness”
The prophet Isaiah proclaims: “The Lord has anointed me to proclaim the oil of gladness!”
St. Augustine reminds us: “We are Christians of the Resurrection, Christians of joy!”
Do we have joy in our hearts? Do we share that joy with our families, parishes, and communities?
(b) Responsorial Psalm: “I Have Anointed Him with My Holy Oil”
God speaks of King David, saying: “I have anointed him with my holy oil.”
Through this anointing, David enters into a deep relationship with God and declares: “You are my Father, my God, my Rock of Salvation!”
Through the Holy Oils, God anoints us and grants us the same relationship and privileges.
(c) Second Reading: “Priests Who Serve”
Christ, through His love, elevates our calling and draws us closer to God.
Through our common priesthood (of the baptized) and ministerial priesthood, we belong to the Lord.
(d) Gospel: “The Lord Has Anointed Me”
Jesus begins His mission, not with the Ten Commandments, but with an anointing. He defines His mission and purpose through the prophecy of Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.” All eyes were fixed on Him.
Today, the eyes of the world are upon us. What hope do we bring to others?
May this Chrism Mass renew our commitment to the Lord and His people!
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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