Because of its meaning and pastoral importance in the life of the diocese, the Chrism Mass is celebrated in the cathedral church on Holy Thursday morning or moved to another day as close to Easter as possible so that a greater number of priests and people might attend.

At this liturgy, priests are brought together to concelebrate Mass as witnesses and cooperators with their Bishop as he consecrates the holy chrism which is used to anoint the newly baptized, to seal the candidates for confirmation , and to anoint the hands of candidates for priesthood at the time of their priestly ordination. At this Mass the Bishop also blesses the oil of the catechumens which is used in the preparation of the catechumens for their baptism. He also blesses the oil of the sick which is used to bring comfort and support to the sick in their infirmity.

Unlike the bread and the wine which are offerings brought forth by members of the baptized faithful, the holy chrism, the oil of catechumens, and the oil of the sick are gifts from the Bishop to the local Churches. Therefore, they are carried in procession by ministers, usually deacons.

The Chrism Mass is a clear expression of the unity of the priesthood and sacrifice of Christ, which continue to be present in the Church.

(adapted from the Ceremonial of Bishops, nos. 274-276)