Precious Blood Cathedral was filled to overflowing as representatives from all regions and sectors of the diocese joined with His Excellency Jean-Louis Plouffe for the celebration of the Mass of Chrism today.

Celebrating priests

The day's events began with a gathering of priests at St. Jerome's church in Sault Ste. Marie. This annual gathering of the priests who are exercising their ministry in our diocese allows the bishop to meet with his primary collaborators for a moment of prayer, discussion and fraternity.

For many years, priests in this diocese have taken advantage of this occasion to celebrate the major anniversaries of our fellow priests. This year, Rev. Edward Wawrzyk is celebrating the fiftieth (50^th) anniversary of his ordination. Father Brendan Doherty, C.PP.S., presented a synopsis of his friend's many years of service. Fr. Wawrzyk, who was ordained in his native Poland, has been present in our diocese for many years, and is currently serving as pastor of Corpus Christi parish in North Bay.

Rev. Robert Giroux, currently pastor of Notre-Dame-de-la-Merci parish in Coniston, St-Marc parish in Markstay and Notre-Dame-de-la-Rivière parish in Wahnapitae is celebrating the twenty-fifth (25^th) anniversary of his ordination this year. Unfortunately Father Giroux was not able to be present for the traditional celebration with his brother priests today.

In addition, Bishop Jean-Louis Plouffe is celebrating twenty (20) years of episcopal ministry this year.

We congratulate these priests and thank them for their devoted service to the Church and to the people of God. May the Lord grant them many more years of joy in His service.

Celebrating our seniors

After sharing a meal, the priests moved to Precious Blood Cathedral where they then participated in the Mass of Chrism which was celebrated in company with representatives of the people of God from all parts of our diocese.

During this annual diocesan liturgical celebration, priests renew their promise to serve God's people and the bishop blesses the Sacred Oils which will be used in the parishes of the diocese throughout this coming year for the celebration of Baptism, Confirmation, Ordination, the Anointing of the Sick and the blessing of new liturgical spaces.

This year we celebrated in a special way with seniors from across the diocese. "Never before," said Bishop Plouffe, "have seniors played such an important role in the life of our Church. I am very thankful to all of you who could free yourselves to join us for this very special celebration."

We wish to thank all those who played a part in organizing this year's Chrism Mass. Musicians, servers, lectors, staff and members of the Catholic Women's League from St. Jerome's parish and Precious Blood Cathedral all played a part in making this celebration a reality. May God reward you for your generosity!