KOTA KINABALU — A deep sense of unity, renewal and spiritual joy marked the celebration of the Chrism Mass at the Sacred Heart Cathedral on March 26, presided over by Archbishop John Wong and attended by clergy and faithful from across the archdiocese.
“I always look forward to the Chrism Mass. It is a celebration of the entire archdiocese,” Archbishop John said in his homily.
“The Chrism Mass is indeed a special day of joy for all of us who are privileged to share in the Lord’s presbyteral ministry.”
In his reflection, the archbishop highlighted the theological significance of the celebration, recalling the two forms of priesthood bestowed by Christ — the ordained ministerial priesthood and the common priesthood of all the faithful. He emphasised that the Chrism Mass is a powerful reminder of the shared participation of all believers in Christ’s mission.
“As we gather for the Chrism Mass, we are reminded of the two priesthoods the Lord has given to each of us,” he said, underscoring the unity between clergy and laity.
Archbishop John also prayed for himself and his fellow priests, asking that they be continually renewed in their vocation. He called for generosity and dedication in their ministry, describing priesthood as both a privilege and a profound responsibility.
“The Chrism Mass reassures us that Jesus is close to us, that He continues to carry out His saving work through the sacraments,” he said. “In the sacraments, Jesus is present for us. He touches us.”
Reflecting on the sacred oils, particularly the Oil of Chrism used in Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders, he said Christ reaches out to the faithful in a personal and transformative way.
“Every person who receives these sacraments is touched, either by the hand of the bishop or through the hands of the priest. In this way, it is Jesus Himself who touches them.”
He added that the Oil of Catechumens signifies strength to renounce sin, while the Oil of the Sick brings healing and comfort.
“In all these sacraments, Christ touches us… and to be touched by Christ is to be healed and made whole.”
Archbishop John stressed that the Chrism Mass is a day of rejoicing in the gift of the sacraments and an invitation to return to these “wellsprings of true life,” especially amid the anxieties and challenges of daily living.
Following the homily, priests renewed their priestly vows, visibly expressing unity and fraternity in their shared commitment to serve the Church. The liturgy continued with the presentation of the sacred oils, which symbolise the Church’s mission of healing, sanctification and initiation into the Christian life.
The archbishop also expressed gratitude to the faithful for their continued support, noting that the Chrism Mass is a powerful reminder of Christ’s closeness and His ongoing saving work through the sacraments.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Msgr Nicholas Stephen blessed the oils brought forward by members of the congregation, marking a solemn moment that reflected the unity of the Church and the shared participation of all in its sacramental life.
