It was a solemn yet joyful atmosphere at the Holy Cross Cathedral as Catholics from across Lagos gathered for this year’s Chrism Mass.
The Chrism Mass, a major highlight of Holy Thursday, commemorates the institution of the Catholic priesthood and the Holy Eucharist, alongside the blessing of sacred oils to be used throughout the liturgical year.
Addressing the large congregation, the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Adewale Martins, described the celebration as a significant moment in the life of the Church. He noted that it offers priests the opportunity to renew their vows and reflect on the centrality of the Holy Eucharist, which remains the core of the Catholic faith.
While congratulating priests on their feast day, Archbishop Martins acknowledged the growing importance of digital evangelization, noting that many people now inhabit online spaces. He, however, cautioned that priests must approach social media with a high sense of decorum and responsibility, guided strictly by the teachings of the Church rather than the pursuit of personal popularity.
He emphasized that while the Gospel must reach digital platforms, its authenticity must not be compromised.
“The oils blessed today are not simply symbols; they speak of configuration—of being set apart by a mark not earned, not constructed, not curated, but given,” he said.
“When we renew our promises today, we do not recreate ordination; we awaken memory. We remember that we were not ordained to build profiles but to bear Christ.
“In this digital space, people gather, argue, celebrate, confess, misunderstand, and sometimes encounter truth. The Church is fully aware that this space exists and is alive. The people we are sent to serve are already there. The Gospel, therefore, has reason to enter it.
“But when the Church enters this space, she must enter as herself. And priests, who stand sacramentally in the person of Christ the Head, must enter it as priests.”
In his homily, Paul Akin-Otiko, Chaplain of St. Thomas More Catholic Chaplaincy, University of Lagos, highlighted the enduring significance of the Chrism Mass as an age-old tradition where sacred oils are consecrated.
He urged priests to pray fervently for the sick using the blessed oils, stressing that healing comes from God.
Fr. Akin-Otiko also called on priests to serve selflessly, warning against turning their ministry into a means of personal gain.
“You have a duty to care for the people entrusted to you, not seeking any gain but with zeal to save souls,” he said.
The celebration reached an emotional peak as hundreds of priests stepped forward to renew their vows of dedication, chastity, and obedience to the Church and their bishop, drawing applause from the congregation.
The event, which also featured thanksgiving, was held under tight security, with the environment remaining peaceful and orderly throughout.
Reporting By Innocent Onoh