During the Chrism Mass in Timor-Leste’s Dili Cathedral, Archbishop Virgílio do Carmo da Silva invites clergy and faithful to rediscover their vocation, unity, and mission rooted in Christ.
By Fr. Mark Robin Destura, RCJ
“We learn from our missionaries who have been here for over 500 years, from those who have given their lives for our country up to the present day”, said Archbishop Virgilio as he presided over the celebration, before exhorting those present to “look to their example of selfless service as a model of the faith that we profess and live out every day”.
As the Church prepares for Holy Week, the Archdiocese of Dili gathered for the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral in Dili on March 26, 2026. Traditionally celebrated on Holy Thursday, it was held earlier for pastoral reasons. The Mass brought together priests, deacons, consecrated persons, seminarians, and the faithful in a visible sign of communion with their bishop.
At the heart of the celebration was the consecration of the Holy Chrism, the oil used in the sacraments throughout the year, as well as the renewal of priestly promises.
A sign of unity and vocation
In his homily, Archbishop Virgílio emphasized that the Chrism Mass is a profound expression of unity within the Church.
“This Mass is also a symbol of unity, bringing together priests, deacons, consecrated persons, seminarians, students, and the faithful with their bishop,” he said.
He reminded priests of their shared identity and mission as a presbyterate united with their bishop, renewing their commitment to serve God’s people.
“The priests, together with their bishop, form a presbyterate to renew their vows of obedience… and their desire to dedicate themselves to the people of Maromak,” he said.
The Archbishop also invited the faithful to pray for deacons and those preparing for ministry, that they may become instruments of God’s grace.
Returning to the source of vocation
Reflecting on the Gospel, the Archbishop called on clergy and faithful to rediscover the roots of their vocation in Christ.
“On the day of our ordination, we confess that we can only be part of this history through the story of Jesus of Nazareth,” he said.
He explained that authentic ministry flows from a personal encounter with Christ, who reveals both identity and mission.
“If we follow Jesus, our ministry will become a ministry of hope for God’s people,” he added.
The Archbishop encouraged priests to reflect on their own life stories and vocation with renewed awareness, recognizing God’s presence in their journey.
Rooted in Scripture and tradition
Archbishop Virgílio highlighted the importance of Sacred Scripture and tradition as the foundation of Christian life and ministry.
He urged clergy and faithful alike to read, meditate on, and live the Word of God daily, allowing it to guide their service in the world.
“When we go out into the world to serve others, the Holy Scriptures become our guide,” he explained.
Recalling Jesus’ proclamation in Nazareth, he pointed to the mission entrusted to every Christian:
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to preach good news to the poor… to proclaim liberty to the captives… and to set the oppressed free.”
The gift and responsibility of priesthood
The Archbishop described the priesthood as a precious gift entrusted by God for the service of His people.
“Thank God for the priesthood. This is a precious gift that we receive from God for His people,” he said.
He invited priests to examine how they live this gift in their daily ministry, remaining faithful despite challenges.
“Though we may sometimes falter, God remains with us,” he reminded them.
The consecration of the Holy Chrism, he added, signifies transformation and ongoing service, a visible sign of God’s presence and action in the life of the Church.
A call to fraternity and service
In the context of a synodal Church, Archbishop Virgílio emphasized the importance of fraternity among clergy and closeness to the people.
“We live in the time of the synodal Spirit… carry out your ministry in closeness to the people of Maromak and in solidarity with your fellow priests,” he said.
Echoing the teaching of Pope Leo XIV, he encouraged priests to build authentic relationships through shared prayer, study, and community life.
“The Pope reminds us that in the Church, we are not concerned with seeking power, but with embracing a spirituality of service and humility,” he noted.
Witnessing through mission
The Archbishop also recalled the example of missionaries who have served Timor-Leste for generations, many of whom gave their lives in witness to the faith.
“We learn from our missionaries who have been here for over 500 years… let us look to their example of selfless service,” he said.
He concluded by inviting all the faithful to renew their commitment to Christ’s mission with patience, sacrifice, and devotion.
As the Church enters Holy Week, the Chrism Mass in Dili stands as a reminder of the unity, mission, and hope that flow from Christ, calling all believers to live their vocation with renewed faith and dedication.
