Area Catholics to participate in the Mass of Holy Chrism
YOUNGSTOWN -- About 1,000 Catholics from the 115 churches in the Diocese of Youngstown are expected to participate in the Mass of Holy Chrism at 10 a.m. Holy Thursday at St. Columba Cathedral, 159 W. Wood St. The new leader of the diocese, Bishop George V. Murry, will conduct the service that will be concelebrated by diocesan consultors and deans.
Each parish will be distinguished by its banner, which will be carried in a procession at the start of the liturgy. The Chrism Mass focuses on the annual renewal of priests in their commitment to service.
The services also will be highlighted by the consecration of the Sacred Chrism and blessing of the Oil of the Sick and the Oil of the Catechumens. Each pastor will receive Sacred Chrism and other Holy Oils for use in the parish.
Ecumenical Television Network will broadcast the Chrism Mass at 8 p.m. Holy Thursday and at 9 a.m. Good Friday.
Bishop Murry will be the main celebrant at the 10:30 a.m. Mass Palm Sunday; Mass of the Lord's Supper at 6 p.m. Holy Thursday; Passion of the Lord service at 3 p.m. Good Friday; Easter vigil at 8 p.m. Holy Saturday; and Easter Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.
The sacrament of penance will be available from 1 to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. A communal penance service will be at 7 p.m. Monday.