By Richard D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (KR)
Udupi, Apr 7: Priest’ Day was celebrated at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, Udupi Diocese on Thursday, April 6. The diocese Chrism mass with blessings of Holy Oils was held. His Lordship Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi diocese concelebrated the holy Mass with Msgr Dr Baptist Menezes, vicar general of the diocese, Fr Valerian Mendonca chancellor of diocese and five deaneries deans and about 74 priests.
Prior to the Eucharistic celebrations, a huge procession of priests proceeded towards the Cathedral from Milagres Tri-centenary Hall.
In his homily, Bishop Lobo pointed out the role of priests in their mission of proclaiming the Word of God which is their fundamental responsibility. He gave example of St Paul whose life revolved around proclaiming the word of God to devotees. He urged priests to convey the real meaning and explanation of Gospel. Priests are to teach not their wisdom but also the word of God. Priests are to share the Gospel not only with believers but with unbelievers’ also. Priests should proclaim the message of Salvation. In order to make strong faith in God, priest should proclaim the Gospel.
During the mass, priests were asked to stand and renew the promises made on their ordination time and witnessed the priests who again pledged their lives and love to Jesus.
The blessings of three kinds of sacred oils is symbolic of the work of the Holy Spirit and serves to sweeten, to strengthen, to render supple.
The Bishop Gerald blessed the three Holy Oils, the Holy Oil of the Sick, the Holy Oil of the Catechumens and the Holy Chrism Oil. The Oil of the Sick which is used in unction.The Oil of Catechumens used in Baptism along with water, in the consecration of churches, in the blessing of Altars, in the ordination of priests and sometimes in the crowning of Catholic Kings or queens. The Holy Chrism or Oil of Gladness is olive oil mixed with a small amount of balm or balsam. It is used in Confirmation, Baptism, in the consecration of a Bishop, the consecration of various things such as churches, chalices, patens and bells.
At the end of the mass, Fr Stany B Lobo rector of the cathedral thanked the gathering. He also wished the clergy well for their celebrations and thanked the choir team.
At the end of mass, cold drink was proffered. Fr Stephen D’Souza conducted the liturgy of the mass.
The day concluded with a get together and consultation of all priests of the diocese at Milagres Tri-centenary Hall.
Around 74 priests of the diocese were present on the day.