Diocesan Church

"And miles to go" Bishop Nienstedt's Pastoral Letter (English and Español)

Second Charter Implementation Report issued by USCCB - 96.3 percent of all dioceses and eparchies found to be in compliance

CARA suurvey part of annual report of Office of Child and Youth Protection - findings made public at February 18 press conference in Washington

Serra Club a growing interest in diocese

Official Appointments

iAprenda   Español!
Spanish immersion course once again being offered


Bishop Nienstedt's 2005 Lenten Messages



Happenings Around the Diocese!


Maronite Census Conducted at Pope's Request

Parish Happenings



Social Concerns

Teen's winning essay inspired by mission trip to San Lucas Toliman in Guatemala and witnessing first hand priest's concern for the poor

A dime for 'every' mile!

Current proposal reflects church's position on life issues

Marching for Life!



Worship

New Catholics featured in upcoming Easter television special

Holy Week Masses scheduled on Eternal Word Television Network



Education/CCW

Diocese gearing up for 28th annual high school rally scheduled for April 10

World Youth Day 2005 - cross logo bears special significance

Morgan students 'announce' their support for Catholic schools through the airwaves!

Opportunities

Fulfilling your call during Lent

Parliamentary procedure - an important role in CCW

2005 Council of Catholic Women Regional Spring Gatherings



Calendar

Good News TV March

March Formation & Education Calendar

Bishop's March Calendar



Catholic Trends
March Catholic Trends

Diocese of New Ulm - March 2005

Chrism Mass to be held March 17
at St. Anastasia parish, Hutchinson

by Ann Przybilla

One of the most solemn and significant liturgies of our church, the Chrism Mass, will be held in the Diocese of New Ulm on Thursday, March 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Church of St. Anastasia, Hutchinson, MN.

It is at this Mass that Bishop John C. Nienstedt will come together with members of the diocese to celebrate, worship, and consecrate the holy oils (Oil of the Sacred Chrism, Oil of the Sick, and Oil of Catechumens) to be used in all the churches in the Diocese of New Ulm each year.

OIL OF SACRED CHRISM

The Oil of Sacred Chrism, from which this Mass gets its name, is used to anoint people in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. It is also used in the dedication and consecration of church buildings and altars. The anointing with sacred Chrism is a sign that Christians are sharers in the kingly and prophetic priesthood of Christ. To the Oil of Chrism, a special fragrance called balsam is added. This fragrance reflects the “sweet aroma of Christ” in our midst through the power of the Holy  Spirit.

OIL OF THE SICK

The Oil of the Sick is used to strengthen and heal those who are ill and suffering. “Is there any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord Jesus.”(James 5: 13-16)

OIL OF CATECHUMENS

The Oil of Catechumens is used to anoint Catechumens and infants prior to baptism. It serves as a kind of exorcism - warding off evil and giving strength to grow in faith.

Another element that takes place at the Chrism Mass is the Renewal of Commitment to Priestly Service.  Because of the intimate link between the oils in the sacramental life of the church and the ministry of its priests, an essential part of the celebration is the renewal of commitment to priestly service by the presbytery of the diocese.  The ordained, in the presence of the assembly, ask for God’s help to remain faithful to their consecrated mission to serve the people of God.  

Ann Przybilla is Director of the Office of Worship for the Diocese of New Ulm;  (507) 359-2966;  e-mail: aprzybilla@dnu.org.

 

photo above by Ann Przybilla