Priests from the Diocese of Wilmington joined Bishop Malooly at the annual Chrism Mass March 21, 7 p.m., at Holy Cross Church in Dover.
During the Mass, the bishop blessed the sacred oils used at parishes during the year. Bishop Malooly blessed the chrism, consisting of olive oil mixed with scented balsam, by breathing on the container of it. Chrism is used for anointing in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and holy orders.
The oils of the sick and for catechumens are also blessed during the Mass.
Representatives of parishes throughout the diocese take portions of the blessed oil back to their communities for use during the year.
