The Most Rev. Erik Pohlmeier, bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine, will concelebrate with the priests of the diocese the annual Chrism Mass at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, at the Cathedral Basilica, 38 Cathedral Place in St. Augustine.
The purpose of the Chrism Mass is to bless the oils for sacramental use over the coming year in parishes, missions, chapels and hospitals of the 17-county region of the diocese.
The consecration of the sacred Chrism and the blessing of other oils are among the principal signs of the fullness of the bishop’s priesthood and are considered to be a sign of the close bond he has with the priests. During the Mass, the priests will renew their priestly commitments.
Pohlmeier will consecrate the Chrism through which the newly baptized are anointed and confirmed; he will bless the oil of catechumens, by which candidates for baptism are strengthened to renounce sin and the devil, and the oil of the sick, for the healing of body, mind and soul.
The Chrism Mass is open to the public and will be livestreamed at YouTube.com/DOSACatholics.
