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CHRISM MASS AT MANILA CATHEDRAL HIGHLIGHTS UNITY, RENEWAL, AND CARE FOR CLERGY WELL-BEING

Apr. 06, 2026 07:19 PM

MANILA, Philippines — On Holy Thursday, April 2, 2026, priests from across the Archdiocese gathered at the Manila Cathedral for the annual Chrism Mass, a solemn and significant celebration that underscores the unity of the Church and the sacred mission of the clergy.

Presided over by His Eminence Jose Cardinal Advincula, Jr., O.P., D.D., the Mass centered on the blessing and consecration of holy oils used in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and the Anointing of the Sick. This centuries-old tradition, dating back to the fifth century, continues to serve as a vital expression of faith and communion within the Church.

At the heart of the celebration was the consecration of the Sacred Chrism—a mixture of oil and balsam symbolizing the strength, healing, and presence of the Holy Spirit. Often referred to as the “fragrance of Christ,” the Chrism reflects the call of the faithful to live out their faith in their daily lives.

A defining moment of the Chrism Mass is the gathering of priests around their bishop, where they renew their priestly promises. This act serves as a visible sign of unity and shared mission, reaffirming their commitment to serve God’s people.

In his homily, Cardinal Advincula turned attention to an urgent and often overlooked issue—the mental and emotional well-being of priests. Speaking directly to the clergy, he shared that recent data shows around 18 percent of Filipino priests experience psychological distress, with many facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, burnout, and compassion fatigue.

Coming from the Archbishop himself, the message resonated deeply, highlighting the need for openness and support within the clergy.

“To address these struggles,” the Cardinal emphasized, “we must begin by recognizing them.”

He then offered three guiding steps for his brother priests: to recognize, to reconnect, and to renew.

To RECOGNIZE, he encouraged priests to acknowledge their struggles honestly, noting that signs such as a weakening prayer life, emotional exhaustion, or a loss of joy in ministry should not be ignored. “These are not signs of failure,” he implied, “but reminders of our humanity.”

To RECONNECT, he stressed the importance of fraternity among priests. He reminded them that they are never alone in their vocation and that true strength is found in communion—with their bishop, fellow priests, and the faithful they serve.

To RENEW, he called on them to return to the heart of their identity—not simply as ministers of tasks, but as men anointed and loved by God. Despite the burdens they carry, their calling remains, sustained by God’s unwavering grace.

The Cardinal also invited the faithful to continue praying for their priests, recognizing that their ministry is strengthened by the support and prayers of the community.

Following the Mass, Rev. Fr. Jek Arada announced the recognition of jubilarian priests who are celebrating milestones in their ministry. Among them was Rev. Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan, Rector and Parish Priest of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, who marked his 25th year in the priesthood. He received a plaque of recognition from Cardinal Advincula.

The celebration concluded with gratitude and joy as the community honored Fr. Licuanan’s years of faithful service outside the Manila Cathedral. Members of various ministries and organizations from Quiapo Church gathered in front of the church to personally congratulate him and express their heartfelt thanks as he is serving his new flock in Quiapo.

 

 

Angelyn Garcia | Social Communications