Chrism Mass Unites Catholic Faithful in Sacred Celebration at Holy Cross Cathedral
- Leotina Akwai
- May 21
- 2 min read
Honiara, Solomon Islands: The Catholic Archdiocese of Honiara marked a significant liturgical event on Holy Monday April 14, 2025 with the celebration of its annual Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.
The solemn occasion was presided over by His Grace, Archbishop Christopher Cardone, OP, and concelebrated by 19 priests from across the Archdiocese, alongside two deacon. The liturgical singing, led by the Seminarians from the Holy Name of Mary Seminary, enriched the sacred atmosphere of the Mass.
The Chrism Mass was witnessed by members of various Religious congregations serving in the Archdiocese, along with lay faithful from across Honiara and surrounding parishes. Their presence reflected the deep unity and shared devotion within the Church community.
In his homily, Archbishop Cardone OP reflected on the meaning of chrism, a term derived from the Greek word for "anointing" or "ointment." He emphasized its vital role in the sacramental life of the Church, including its use in baptisms, confirmations, the anointing of the sick, and Holy Orders. The Archbishop announced that during the upcoming Easter Vigil, 27 children and four adults will be baptized, and shared that annually, over 4,000 faithful receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. This year, three new priests will also be anointed with the sacred chrism oil.
Although traditionally celebrated on Holy Thursday, this year’s Chrism Mass was held on Holy Monday to accommodate priests traveling from various parts of the diocese, especially those residing closer to the Cathedral.
Addressing his brother priests, Archbishop Cardone OP called upon them to remember their ordination day and to renew their commitment to serve as Christ’s messengers. "The Lord has called us and anointed us, to become his voice, his messengers," he said, underlining the sacred responsibility of the priestly vocation.
The Archbishop also invited the lay faithful to continue praying for priests and their mission, highlighting the importance of spiritual support from the community. He shared the joyful news that the first Melanesian saint, Peter ToRot, a layman from Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, will be canonized this year, as recently announced by Pope Francis.
A central highlight of the Mass was the renewal of priestly vows, as the clergy reaffirmed their promise to be faithful stewards of God’s mysteries and teachers of the faith. Archbishop Cardone OP then blessed the sacred oils—chrism, oil of catechumens, and oil of the sick— which will be used in sacraments throughout the year across the diocese.
The Archbishop concluded the celebration by thanking the religious brothers, sisters, and lay faithful for their presence and ongoing support. He urged all Catholics to remain united in prayer for their priests and for vocations to the priesthood and religious life.
The blessed oils will be distributed to the Diocese of Auki and to parishes still awaiting a new bishop, ensuring that the spiritual needs of the faithful continue to be met.
The annual Chrism Mass remains a powerful testament to the unity, faith, and enduring mission of the Catholic Church in the Solomon Islands.
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