Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2025 Chrism Mass. Below you will find a summary and pictures of the Mass.
Tucson EOHSJ Knights and Dames participated in the Diocese of Tucson Chrism Mass at Saint Augustine Cathedral on April 14, 2025. Most Reverend Gerald F. Kicanas, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson was the Presider and Homilist. Diocese of Tucson Priests were Concelebrants.
Significance of Chrism
The Chrism Mass is a significant liturgical celebration in Christianity, particularly in Roman Catholicism, Lutheranism, and Anglicanism. It is traditionally held on Maundy Thursday or another day during Holy Week, presided over by the bishop in the cathedral of a diocese. During this Mass, the bishop blesses and consecrates the holy oils used in sacraments throughout the year, including Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and Anointing of the Sick. The Chrism oil, a mixture of olive oil and balsam, symbolizes the Holy Spirit and is used in various sacred rites. Additionally, priests renew their ordination promises, reaffirming their commitment to their ministry.
A Grand Concelebration
In his Homily, Bishop Kicanas included a history of Jubilee years. The Jubilee Year has its roots in ancient Judaism, where it was observed every 50 years as a time of liberation and restoration, including the freeing of slaves and the return of land to its original owners. In Christianity, the tradition began in 1300 when Pope Boniface VIII declared the first Holy Year, initially set to occur every 100 years but later adjusted to every 25 years. Over time, Jubilees became significant moments for spiritual renewal, pilgrimage, and indulgences, with extraordinary Jubilees proclaimed for special occasions, such as the Jubilee of Mercy in 2015. The 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope continues this tradition, inviting believers to embrace faith and reconciliation. Bishop Kicanas concluded by asking the faithful to see the massive goodness in the world and to be Missionaries of Hope.
Jubilee Year of Hope
The 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope is a special Holy Year declared by Pope Francis, emphasizing renewal, reconciliation, and spiritual pilgrimage. The theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” encourages believers to deepen their faith and trust in God.
Key highlights of the Jubilee Year:
- Pilgrimage & Indulgences: Catholics can receive special blessings and indulgences by participating in designated pilgrimages and sacraments.
- Major Events: The year officially began on December 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and will conclude on January 6, 2026.
- Local Celebrations: Dioceses worldwide are hosting events, including the Pilgrimage of Hope on April 5, 2025, in Los Angeles, California which drew 6,000 participants.
- The Diocese of Tucson is hosting a Jubilee Year Retreat on June 28,2025. Use link for more information Rise Up! Day of Revival :: Home | New Outlook
- Spiritual Reflection: The Vatican has linked the Jubilee to themes of peace, justice, and care for creation, aligning with the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’.
Mass concluded with a Jubilee Prayer of Hope. Thank you to the thirty-two Dames, Knights, 2025 Investees, and guests who participated in the Holy Week Chrism Mass.
The Jubilee Prayer
Father in heaven,
may the faith you have given us
in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,
and the flame of charity enkindled
in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,
reawaken in us the blessed hope
for the coming of your Kingdom.
May your grace transform us
into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel.
May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos
in the sure expectation
of a new heaven and a new earth,
when, with the powers of Evil vanquished,
your glory will shine eternally.
May the grace of the Jubilee
reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope,
a yearning for the treasures of heaven.
May that same grace spread
the joy and peace of our Redeemer
throughout the earth.
To you our God, eternally blessed,
be glory and praise for ever.
Amen
