Diocese of Venice to celebrate blessing and consecration of holy oils at annual Chrism Mass
The Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida will bless and consecrate oils used for sacramental anointing throughout the Diocese and officiate at the annual renewal of promises made by priests in the Diocese on Tuesday, March 22, at 10:30 a.m., at Epiphany Cathedral, 350 Tampa Ave. W., in Venice.
At the annual Chrism Mass, Bishop Dewane blesses two oils – the Oil of Catechumens (oleum catechumenorum or oleum sanctorum), the Oil of the Infirm (oleum infirmorum) and consecrates the Holy Chrism (sacrum chrisma) – all three will be used in the administration of the sacraments throughout the Diocese of Venice for the year.
“These sacred oils, once blessed, or consecrated will be used to baptize catechumens and infants, to anoint the sick, to ordain priests, and in the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation,” said Bishop Dewane.
The Chrism Mass takes its name from the title “The Christ,” which means the Anointed One and is celebrated during Holy Week, with all other dioceses in the world, which includes the Vatican in Rome.
Bishop Dewane will begin by blessing the oil of the sick and catechumens, followed by the chrism oil being consecrated. During the consecration of the chrism Bishop Dewane will pour balsam into the oil and breathes on it signifying the presence of the Holy Spirit.
The balsam is symbolic of the sweet odor of virtue; the oil signifies the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on a person and the consecration of sacred objects for sacred usage. Mixed with fragrant perfume, the holy chrism is consecrated to anoint the newly baptized, those receiving Confirmation, the hands of newly ordained priests, the head of a consecrated bishop, as well as the altars and walls of new churches at their dedication.