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Unity in Diocese
Banners from 112 parishes and two missions reflect diversity
By LINDA M. LINONIS
youngstown
Representatives of 112 parishes and two missions in the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown demonstrated unity and diversity of the Church as they gathered on Holy Thursday for the Mass of Holy Chrism at St. Columba Cathedral. Bishop George V. Murry was the main celebrant with diocesan consultors and deans concelebrating.
Parish members carried banners depicting churches as they participated in the opening procession. The unity of the church was shown by the 1,000 people from the parishes and the diversity through what was pictured on the banners.
“Some will have a likeness of the church, a likeness of the patron saint along with the church name and city,” said Fran Amer, director of the office of worship in the diocese. “It’s something church members feel is meaningful,” she said of what is chosen to represent the church.
For example, St. Columba’s banner shows the stained-glass window at the cathedral.
Amer said most of the banners are handmade by parish members and are used for many years. She noted that this year is especially meaningful to some parishes in light of the downsizing of the diocese. “Some anticipate a change in status,” she said, noting they may no longer be stand-alone parishes.
The Mass also has special meaning for the 130 priests in the diocese as they renewed their commitment to priestly service. “The bishop asks the people to support the priests in their ministry,” Amer said.
Pope Benedict XVI declared the year for priests from June 19, 2009, to June of this year. The observance will conclude June 19 in Rome with an international gathering of priests with the Holy Father. St. John Vianney was named the universal patron of priests on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the death of the Cur d’Ars, which means the priest of d’Ars.
Unity of belief is also demonstrated as each pastor received Sacred Chrism and other holy oils. Oil of Sick is used to annoint those who are ill, Amer said, while the Oil of Catechumens is used in baptism. Sacred Chrism, she explained, is part of the Confirmation service and used in the ordination of priests and dedication of altars.
Bishop Murry will celebrate the Easter vigil at 8 tonight at the cathedral with the Revs. John E. Keehner, cathedral rector, and Edward Brienz, vice rector, concelebrating. Easter Sunday Masses will be at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with the cathedral choir singing at the afternoon liturgy.