Holy Thursday
On Holy Thursday, there are two Masses: the Chrism Mass and the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. The Chrism Mass is the manifestation of the priests’ communion with their bishop. Every priest is expected to participate in this celebration, as it symbolizes the unity between the bishop and priests. It also offers them an opportunity to renew their priestly vows and promises.
The Chrism mass falls on Thursday before Easter but can be celebrated on Tuesday or Wednesday before Easter, depending on the pastoral situation of a particular diocese or archdiocese.
During the Chrism Mass, the bishop blesses the oil of catechumens, the oil of the sick, and consecrates the oil of Chrism. The three oils are further distributed to the priests for the spiritual sanctification of the people throughout the year.
The “oil of catechumens” (olive or vegetable oil) is used in the ceremonies of Baptism; the “oil of the sick” (olive or vegetable oil) is used in the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick (cf. Jas 5:14); and the “chrism” (olive or vegetable oil mixed with balm) is used also at Baptism, in Confirmation, at the ordination of a priest or bishop, and for the dedication of churches and altars.
These are the three basic oils that are used in the church. The modern trend of oil in churches is born out of pentecostalism. Why are we in need of oil outside of the above? Anointing is not oil, even though oil is used for anointing. Oftentimes, the numerous oils we see today are signs of faithlessness. If these oils are medicinal, go ahead and apply your medication; do not attribute spiritual powers to them.
On the other hand, at a convenient time, usually in the evening, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper is celebrated. This Mass is the memorial of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, when he established the sacrament of Holy Communion before his arrest and crucifixion. It also commemorates His institution of the priesthood. Thus, it is the twin birth of the Holy Eucharist and the Priesthood (Luke 22:19–20). So,it is the anniversary of all validly ordained priests.
This mass concludes with the transfer of the Holy Eucharist to another location in the church called the altar of repose, where the faithful adore the Lord until midnight.
Lastly, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, or Paschal Triduum. The word “Triduum” comes from the Latin word meaning “three days.” It covers the three most sacred days in the church. It begins at sundown on Holy Thursday, reaches a high point at the Easter Vigil, and concludes with evening prayer at sundown on Easter Sunday.
All Catholics are encouraged to observe the entire Triduum by actively participating in it.
Father Daniel Evbotokhai
