Ivan Mascarenhas
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi                                                                    

Udupi, Mar 22: 'Blessing of the Holy Oils' or ‘Chrism’ mass was held at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, on Thursday March 21. Udupi Diocese Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo celebrated the high mass along with all the diocese priests.

Prior to the high mass there was a recollection and seminar for all priests of Udupi Diocese held at Milagres tri-centenary hall from 9:30am to 3:30pm. The recollection talk was delivered by Fr Eugine Lobo. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament also held at the Cathedral. Reflection and preparation for confession was held before the noon session of the seminar.

During the afternoon session, the first talk was by Fr John Mendonca, judicial vicar, Udupi Diocese, and the second talk was by Rudolph Rodrigues.

The Blessings of the Holy Oils which is usually done on Maundy Thursday, was conducted a week earlier by the Bishop since all the priests of the Diocese have to be present in their respective parishes on that day.

This year, the Blessings of the Holy Oils was conducted for the first time ever in the newly established Diocese of Udupi in Milagres Cathedral. Bishop gave gratitude to all concerned for the successful celebration.

Rector of the Cathedral Fr Stany B. Lobo also proposed a vote of thanks to the parishioners as well as diocese priests who participated for the seminar and holy historical mass. More than 800 devotees gathered for the Holy Mass.