IMPHAL: The Catholic Church in Manipur, under the Archdiocese of Imphal, observed and celebrated the Chrism Mass on Wednesday evening at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Mantripukhri in Imphal. The Chrism Mass is celebrated every year during the Holy Week.
The day began with the Joint Recollection of Priests and Religious at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Mantripukhri Imphal from 9:30 AM onwards. Fr. Paul Ngaoni, Chancellor of the Archdiocese, introduced and welcomed the priests and nuns stating that the day was set apart for a sacred pause and also for their hearts to rekindle and strengthen their vocation.
The day’s recollection was preached by Most Rev. Dr. Linus Neli, Archbishop of Imphal who spoke on the theme “Call to holiness in priestly and religious life”. He encouraged collaborative ministry missions and also deepening of spirituality as priests and religious.
After the talk, priests and nuns celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation and spent time in adoration of the blessed sacrament.
The solemn Chrism mass began at 5:30 PM in the presence of the faithful. Welcoming the congregation, Fr. Varghese Vellickakkam, the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Imphal, highlighted the importance of the auspicious day and said that the Chrism Mass symbolised the unity of the Bishop with his Presbyterium.
Archbishop Dr. Linus Neli was the main celebrant and in his homily he reminded the priests to cherish their ordination day, the day they were ordained as a priest of God for the service of humanity. He called for reflection on Jesus’ abiding presence in the Holy Eucharist which they experience everyday during mass.
Traditionally three oils are blessed during the yearly Chrism mass, i.e. oil of Catechumens, oil of the sick and oil of Chrism. The day also marks the priesthood day where priests renew their commitment to priestly service.Â
After the mass the priests were felicitated with songs and gifts for their service and sacrifices. It was a joyous sight to witness two Archbishops, 151 priests, 207 nuns and numerous laity come together to mark the special annual feature.