Smith lauds enthusiasm of the laity

Archbishop celebrates his first Chrism Mass in Edmonton

- WCR photo by Glen Argan Archbishop Richard Smith distributed the sacred oils to parish representatives at the annual archdiocesan Chrism Mass at St. Joseph Basilica March 17.

By GLEN ARGAN
WCR Editor
Edmonton

The grace of Baptism and Confirmation is alive and visible in the laity of the Edmonton Archdiocese, Archbishop Richard Smith said at the annual Chrism Mass.

"Everywhere I visit I meet many women and men who take very seriously their call to participate in the mission of the Church and do so with joy and enthusiasm," Smith said in his homily during the March 17 Mass.

The Chrism Mass at St. Joseph Basilica is the start of Holy Week liturgies. In it, the archbishop blesses the sacred oils for use in sacraments celebrated across the archdiocese. As well, priests recommit themselves to their priestly ministry.

This year's event was the first for Smith in Edmonton, where he was installed as archbishop last May 1.

Distribution of oils

After the Mass, he warmly greeted representatives from each parish in the archdiocese and passed on small vials of the Oil of Catechumens, Oil of the Sick and Oil of Chrism to them.

In his homily, after listing various forms of lay service in the archdiocese, Smith said, "I am edified by your witness and grateful for your service."

He asked the congregation to pray that God "enable us to live ever more truly in accord with the dignity that is ours as Christians and keep us faithful to the mission he entrusts to us."

Turning to the priests, he noted that at their ordinations, they are anointed with the sacred chrism.

"The anointing signifies that, in virtue of the gift of the Spirit given by the laying on of hands, the priest participates in the priesthood of Christ in such a way that he is able to act in the person of Christ the head of the Church."

Smith noted that the Chrism Mass is a time to give thanks to God for the gift of the ordained priesthood.

When the archbishop said that his visits to parishes have made it "very clear to me that the people of this local Church love their priests," his remarks were greeted with applause from the congregation.

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