Priests are set apart for a specific mission. They are called to celebrate the Sacraments, pray, and reconcile people with God. This was emphasised by Archbishop Isaac Amani of Arusha Archdiocese during this year’s Chrism Mass
Sr. Ernestina Patrick Lasway, SAC – Vatican City
In his homily during the Chrism Mass celebrated at St. Theresa Cathedral Church in Arusha, Archbishop Isaac Amani highlighted the importance of the priestly calling and urged priests to live faithfully according to their vocation.
He continued, “Priests are more credible when they put into practice what they teach, and not only when they guide people by words alone.” He stressed that those called to be priests should lead lives of prayer and endeavour to live in harmony within their parish communities.
The baptismal priesthood of the faithful
Tanzania: Part of the congregation during the Chrism Mass
The Archbishop also reminded the lay faithful of their priesthood by virtue of baptism. Through baptism, all Christians share in the “common priesthood” of Christ, participating in his mission as priest, prophet, and king. This baptismal priesthood empowers laypeople to sanctify the world through their daily lives, prayer, and work, offering spiritual sacrifices to God. While it is distinct from the ministerial priesthood, it is essential to the Church’s mission.
Addressing himself once again to the ordained ministers present, the Archbishop reminded them of their noble calling and urged them to bring healing through their anointed hands. The hands of priests must reconcile, sanctify, bless others and be used to celebrate the sacred mysteries of the Church.
The three Holy Oils
Archbishop Amani also spoke about the blessing of Chrism oil, Oil for Catechumens, and Oil of the Sick, explaining the meaning of each.
He urged Christians to make use of the Sacrament of Anointing when they are sick, emphasising that the oil strengthens the faith of those who are ill and provides grace to endure in times of suffering and pain.
The holy oils of Chrism, Catechumens, and Oil of the Sick bear fruit through the ministry of the priest. The mediation of priests, he said, is thus essential. He thanked and prayed for all priests in their mission within the diocese and beyond.
Renewal of priestly commitment
During the Mass, priests renewed their promises, recommitting themselves to Christ in service to God.
The Archbishop encouraged Christians to pray for priests to live up to their vows, promises, and commitments. In addition, Christians should embrace a life of prayer for their own spiritual growth. He encouraged them to read the Bible and attend seminars and spiritual gatherings for their own spiritual nourishment and well-being.
Archbishop Amani concluded by inviting the faithful to be united in the Archdiocese, especially as they prepare to consecrate a new Cathedral on 7 August 2026. The Archdiocese of Arusha is about to inaugurate its new Cathedral, which has been under construction for nearly 15 years.
In some African dioceses, it is common practice to anticipate Chrism Mass. Traditionally, Chrism Mass is celebrated on Holy Thursday morning. Dioceses will anticipate the celebration of Chrism Mass, usually because some priests live far from the Cathedral. The long distances involved make it impractical for them to attend a morning Mass at the Cathedral on Holy Thursday and then return in time for the evening Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper, in their own parishes.
