By Njideka Eze
In an incredible gathering of over five hundred priests, Priests and the faithful from various parishes in the diocese, superiors of different congregations, and religious devotees came together for the annual Chrism Mass.
This, of course, was a pivotal moment of reflection, gratitude, and renewal.
The 2024 Chrism Mass served as a beautiful reminder of the unifying essence of Baptism and the sacred anointing facilitated by the ministry of the Bishop and his devoted Priests.
Amidst an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm, His Lordship, Bishop Callistus Onaga, expressed profound joy at the sight of numerous heads bowed in prayerful reverence, particularly acknowledging the priests who had gathered to express gratitude for another year of service. Extending warm greetings on behalf of the clergy, Bishop Onaga, accompanied by the esteemed Bishop emeritus and auxiliary Bishop, emphasized the significance of the occasion as a day to offer thanks for the invaluable gift of priesthood bestowed upon the Church.
Highlighting the ceremonial blessings of oils, including those for the Sick and Catechumens, as well as the consecration of the Chrism oil, Bishop Onaga elucidated the importance of welcoming new members into the fold of the Church. The Chrism Mass, he underscored, symbolized not only a sacramental rite but also a celebration of unity and collaboration among priests and bishops in their collective stewardship of the Lord’s vineyard.
In a heartfelt address, Bishop Onaga urged priests to cherish the sacred privilege of priesthood and to uphold their commitments to the Bishop and the church as a whole, stressing the solemn responsibility of preaching the Gospel and serving as vessels of divine grace. He cautioned against neglecting the sanctity of their ordained hands, reminding them of their power to bless and sanctify through their ministry.
Furthermore, Bishop Onaga emphasized the transformative power of love inherent in the priestly heart, urging priests to embody humility, compassion, and selflessness in their interactions with the faithful. He cautioned against succumbing to worldly temptations, advocating instead for a steadfast focus on the ultimate goal of heavenly salvation.
Echoing sentiments of gratitude and admiration, Monsignor Anthony Anijielo, the vicar for Priests, lauded the remarkable development strides witnessed under Bishop Onaga’s leadership. He acknowledged the challenging task of recognizing the diocese’s current state compared to its past, attributing its progress to the visionary initiatives spearheaded by Bishop Onaga.
As the Chrism Mass concluded with prayers for continued blessings and divine guidance, the gathered faithful departed with renewed faith and commitment to their sacred callings, inspired by the spirit of unity, love, and service pervading the solemn ceremony.
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