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Rite for Receiving the Holy Oils - English

For use prior to the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday in the Parish.

The following are needed:

the vessels containing the holy oils

a table for placement of the holy oils

presenters bearing the vessels of the holy oils

gift bearers with bread and wine

Reception of the Oils

The celebrant, facing the people, gives an instruction concerning the blessing and use of holy oils in these, or similar, words.

Priest:

On Tuesday, in the presence of the priests and faithful of the Diocese of Manchester, Bishop Peter Libasci consecrated the holy Chrism and blessed the oils for use in the anointing of the sick and in preparation of catechumens for Baptism. Tonight we receive these holy oils for use in the celebration of the Church’s sacraments during the coming year.

As each oil is presented, the cantor (in simple, solemn chant) or another minister (in recitation) makes the accompanying proclamations which follow. The vessel containing the oil is held high by each presenter.

Cantor:

Behold the oil of the sick, blessed by our Bishop, and sent to us for the anointing of all who suffer illness.

People:

Blessed be God forever! or Thanks be to God!

Cantor:

Behold the oil of the catechumens, blessed by our Bishop, and sent to us for the anointing of our catechumens in preparation for their baptism at the Easter Vigil and throughout the coming year.

People:

Blessed be God forever! or Thanks be to God!

Cantor:

Behold the sacred chrism, oil mixed with sweet perfume and consecrated by our Bishop, and sent to us for the anointing of the baptized who are to be sealed with the Holy Spirit.

People:

Blessed be God forever! or Thanks be to God!

The oils are then placed into the ambry or on a table. The Mass begins with processional through the church.