Because only a bishop, along with the gathered diocesan priests, may consecrate the chrism, Msgr. Carl Kemme, diocesan administrator, has invited Bishop John R. Gaydos of the Diocese of Jefferson City, Mo., to preside. The Springfield diocese has been without a bishop since then-Bishop George J. Lucas was named archbishop of Omaha last June.

Despite the lack of a bishop, the annual chrism Mass is an important event in the life of the diocese, according to Eliot Kapitan of the diocesan Office for Worship and the Catechumenate.

“The holy chrism consecrated at this Mass is used to anoint the newly baptized, to seal the candidates for confirmation, to anoint the hands of presbyters and the heads of bishops at their ordination,” said Kapitan. “It is also used in the rites of dedication of churches and altars. The oil of catechumens is used throughout the year during the period of the catechumenate for the benefit of those being trained and formed in the Christian life. The oil of the sick is used to bring comfort and support to those who are ill.

“Also during this Mass, the college of presbyters will gather to concelebrate and publicly renew their commitment to priestly service,” Kapitan said.

Kapitan said the annual chrism Mass, with both priests and lay people taking part, “manifests the communion of all who make up the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.” He said each parish and healthcare facility will send a delegation to the chrism Mass to receive the oils and the chrism and carry them back home. Any member of the faithful is also welcome to take part.

After the blessing of the oils and chrism, the elect and called candidates will be dismissed for a brief time and will return after Communion.

After the chrism Mass, a reception will follow in the Cathedral atrium.

Back in the parishes, the oils and chrism may be formally received as part of the preparation of the gifts during the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday. After this Mass, they are placed in the ambry for safekeeping and for use at the Easter Vigil and throughout the coming year.

For a copy of the Parish Reception of the Holy Oils and Chrism from the Chrism Mass, go to www.dio.org/worship/liturgical-year-and-calendar-links.html.