Posted April 2, 2021

Archbishop Nelson Perez led the Chrism Mass as celebrant and homilist April 1 in the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul. Many priests of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and those of religious congregations renewed the promises of their ordination and heard words of encouragement by the archbishop. It was the first time Archbishop Perez celebrated the Chrism Mass with the priests as Archbishop of Philadelphia, since last year’s celebration was modified due to the pandemic. Also at the Mass, the archbishop consecrated the oil of catechumens, oil of the sick and sacred chrism for sacramental use at parishes throughout the year. Watch a video of the entire Mass here. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

  • A seminarian leads the procession.

  • Knights of Columbus present an honor guard.

  • Seminarians participate in the Mass under the basilica’s Stations of the Cross.

  • A seminarian brings up fragrant balsam, which will be added to the oil of chrism.

  • Permanent deacons present urns of pure olive oil to be blessed in the rite.

  • The archbishop mixes balsam into the oil.

  • During the blessing rite, Archbishop Perez breathes into the casks of oil.

  • Priests extend their hands as they concelebrate the Mass with Archbishop Perez.

  • Archbishop Perez greets Father Louis Monica, whom he ordained last year.

  • Religious sisters and lay people separate the blessed oils into smaller containers that the priests and deacons will bring back to their parishes after the Mass.