Diocese of Tucson Chrism Mass 2026

The Diocese of Tucson EOHSJ Knights and Dames were part of the entrance procession for the Holy Week Chrism Mass at Saint Augustine Cathedral on 30 March 2026.  Participation in special Mass’s by the Order is an outward sign of our support to the Mission of the Equestrian Order. The Cathedral was full and thirty-seven Knights and Dames had a highly visible presence.

The Chrism Mass is the annual liturgy—usually celebrated in Holy Week—where the bishop gathers with his priests and people to bless the three holy oils used throughout the year and to consecrate the Sacred Chrism, the fragrant oil that signifies the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. During the Mass, priests publicly renew their promises of service, highlighting their unity with the bishop and their shared mission to shepherd the faithful. The blessing of the Oil of the Sick, the Oil of Catechumens, and the consecration of the Chrism all point to the Church’s sacramental life: healing, initiation, and consecration. In one sweeping celebration, the whole local Church is reminded that its ministries, sacraments, and pastoral care flow from Christ, through the bishop, and into the life of every parish and community.

In his Homily Most Reverend James A. Misko, Bishop of Tucson shared the miracle of the Eucharist. While there are seven sacraments, many faithful would consider the sacrament of Eucharist as the number one sacrament. The Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life, where Catholics receive Christ’s Body and Blood. Through Eucharist God makes direct contact with us.  With the consumption of his body and blood we are living his life.  In other words, God and I are one. The blessed oils do not roll off or evaporate when they are received.  They are absorbed into our bodies.  God is in us as we become what we receive.  Holiness is something we are.