Bishop Mulvey breathes into the chrism oil thus giving the breath of God. It is a sign of calling on the Holy Spirit.

Calling on all to take to heart that it is Christ who brings meaning to life, Bishop Wm. Michael Mulvey presided at his first Chrism Mass in Corpus Christi Cathedral March 30.

The cathedral was filled for the annual liturgy held during Holy Week where over 130 priests gathered to profess their commitment to priestly ministry. Also present were recently retired Bishop Edmond Carmody, who is now bishop emeritus, and Bishop Emeritus Rene Gracida.

At this Mass Bishop Mulvey also blessed the oil of the sick and the oil of the catechumens and consecrated the chrism, which are used by the priests as they administer the sacraments at their respective parishes.

There is "no meaning in life without Christ Jesus. Life is Christ," said the bishop in his homily. "There is only one priest: Jesus Christ. It is through him that we find our meaning of life."

The bishop added that Christ is "flowing from the Eucharist," and priests "bring that life to others," stated Mulvey.

"God is in the presence of the priest who day after day lifts up the simple elements of bead and wine," said Mulvey.

Directly addressing the priests in attendance, Bishop Mulvey said, "We who have been called to the priesthood must recommit to Christ every day. Priests need that Eucharistic food everyday."

He encouraged them to reflect on the day of their ordination and the questions that were asked of them. "You committed yourselves with great enthusiasm that day. Remember that day and reflect on it. The Lord will never leave us. He will fill our lives with family. The measure we give to the Lord will be received back a hundredfold."

Bishop Mulvey then told the congregation the importance of the three oils he blessed after his homily.

"These oils are the living comfort and presence of our Lord." He called them "a symbol of our unity and faith in the Lord. At our baptism, we are touched by the love and compassion of God. At the end of our life, we are touched by the love and compassion of God. We are a consecrated people."

Three permanent deacons presented each of the oils and carried them to the bishop for the blessing.

Deacon Ron Martinez brought forth the oil of the sick,. "Bless this oil and sanctify it for our use. Make this oil a remedy for all who are anointed with it; heal them in body, in soul and in spirit, and deliver them from every affliction," prayed the bishop with his hands outstretched over the urn bearing the oil.

Deacon Erick Simeus processed down the main aisle of the cathedral carrying the silver urn containing the oil of catechumens. The oil of catechumens is used before the baptismal rite asking the Lord to deliver the person from sin and sealing the heart against sin.

Bishop Mulvey prayed, "Bless this oil and give wisdom and strength to all who are anointed with it in preparation for their baptism. Bring them to a deeper understanding of the Gospel, help them to accept the challenge of Christian living, and lead them to the joy of new birth in the family of your Church."

Deacon Art Provencio brought forth the final urn containing the oil for the Holy chrism, which is used for baptism, confirmation and Holy Orders.

Father Pete Elizardo, master of ceremonies, handed Bishop Mulvey a small silver vessel containing fragrant balsam oil, which he poured into the chrism oil. After mixing the oils, Bishop Mulvey breathed into the container, a sign of calling on the Holy Spirit.

The priests and bishops raised their hands and prayed with Bishop Mulvey as he consecrated the chrism.

All three urns were placed on pedestals beneath the statue of the Virgin Mary in the sanctuary. Small vessels containing each of the oils were distributed by the bishop to the priests at the end of Mass.

In his closing remarks, Bishop Mulvey thanked all of his brother priests, "You have my eternal support. I am grateful to the Lord’s priests who are on the front lines day in and day out. I thank you for all that you do."

Contributing to the story was Msgr. Michael Howell, pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle.