Because of the wide pastoral reach of the Archdiocese of Cebu, the Chrism Mass, traditionally celebrated on the morning of Holy Thursday, was held earlier today at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, gathering both diocesan and religious clergy in a solemn expression of unity and mission.
Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy presided over the Holy Mass. He also consecrated the Sacred Chrism and blessed the other oils: the oil for the catechumens and the oil for the anointing of the sick.
Within the Mass, the presbyterium renewed the vows they made at ordination, reaffirming their promise of obedience to the Archbishop and their fidelity in priestly ministry.
In his homily, Archbishop Abet reminded the clergy that on the day of their ordination, their hands were anointed with sacred chrism—not as a mark of privilege, but as a mandate for mission.
“We are anointed to preach not ourselves but Christ; to heal not only the wounds of the body but those of the soul; to serve, not to be served,” Archbishop Abet said.
He stressed that this call extends beyond the ordained, reaching every baptized Catholic who, through baptism, shares in the dignity and mission of Jesus.
As the clergy renewed their priestly vows, the Archbishop underscored that the moment is far more than ritual. It is a moment of grace and truth.
“We are not our own. We belong to Christ. We belong to His people,” he said. “In our time, we must confront real challenges—clericalism, entitlement, complacency, and even discouragement. But today, the Lord calls us back to humility, to simplicity, and to love.”
Let us continue to pray for our priests and for a bountiful harvest in the vineyard of the Lord. May God, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, guide and strengthen them as they faithfully shepherd His people.