The Cebu Clergy, both diocesan and religious, gathered at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral to celebrate the Chrism Mass.
Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma 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 also renewed the vows they made during their ordination, promising obedience to the Archbishop and faithfulness in their ministry.
In his homily, the good Archbishop reminded the priests of the need for the interior bond for the configuration to Christ and the need for renunciation of their lives as their own.
He emphasized Pope Benedict’s words that in ordination, they no longer claim their lives as their own because their lives are at the Lord’s disposal. Therefore, they should make themselves open and available for service to the Lord and the Church.
“Unta, makaingon kita, ‘When people see me, they know that I am here because I come from the love of Jesus and I am sent for them.’ When we think of our configuration to Jesus, it seems too daunting. It seems too lofty. But, thank God, there are imitators of Christ, and in them, we are given an invitation to follow. We all know we are stewards of the mysteries of God, and by our teaching, by our sanctifying, by our forming Christian communities, we build the Church,” said Archbishop Palma.
He also urged the priests to be humble and tell God, “Sorry Lord for my shortcomings and failures.”
“Before the loving and good Lord, we know, all of us have our own share of shortcomings and failures, kapalpakan. Today is also a day when, before the Lord, we say sorry. That is the meaning of renewal,” said Archbishop Palma.
Let us continue to pray for our priests and a bountiful harvest of the ministry. May God, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, graciously guide our clergy on their journey. In leading and nurturing God’s flock, may they find strength in their calling and a deepened sense of purpose in serving others.
Watch the highlights of this year’s Chrism Mass here.