FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — Bishop Robert P. Deeley will celebrate the Mass of the Oils at St. Denis Church, located on 143 Main Street in Fort Fairfield, on Wednesday, March 23, at 7 p.m., the final full day of Lent.
The Mass of the Oils includes the distribution of blessed and consecrated oils to parishes located in northern and eastern Maine. It also offers the opportunity for the priests who gather to renew their promises as well. Bishop Deeley celebrates this Mass with the deacons, religious and lay faithful from those areas.
This celebration follows the Chrism Mass, planned Tuesday, March 22, in Portland, at which the bishop will bless the oil of the sick and the oil of the catechumens, as well as consecrate the sacred Chrism. The oil of the sick is used to anoint the sick, bringing God’s health, strength, and forgiveness to those in need. The oil of the catechumens — those preparing for baptism in the church — is blessed to strengthen them to avoid sin and to grow in faith. The sacred Chrism is used for baptism, confirmation, ordination of priests and the consecration of altars and churches.
The oils and Chrism will be distributed to Aroostook County parishes at the Mass of the Oils, to be used in the sacraments throughout the coming year.
