Holy Thursday Mass

On Holy Thursday, the Chrism Mass is celebrated in cathedrals in dioceses all over the world. It is one of the most holy and solemn Masses celebrated all year, because, in addition to the priests renewing their promises to the bishop, and reaffirming their sacred promises recited at ordination, the three oils blessed by the bishop during the Mass play an important role in the life of the Church.  

The bishop blesses three separate oils during the Chrism Mass

The Oil of Catechumens - used in the Sacrament of Baptism.

The Oil of the Sick - used in the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.

The Oil of Chrism - used in the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders.

After the Chrism Mass, the holy oils are distributed to the parishes of the diocese where they are used to anoint the faithful throughout the year.  

Archbishop Eamon Martin and a small number of priests of the diocese will celebrate the Chrism Mass at 10.30am in Newry Cathedral.

This Mass is not open to the public; however, people are encouraged to join via the webcam.