The 2025 Chrism Mass was solemnly celebrated on April 15, 2025 at St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral in Goaso. The celebration was presided over by the Bishop of Goaso, Most Rev. Peter K. Atuahene, with a large number of diocesan priests concelebrating the liturgy.
During the Chrism Mass, priests renewed their priestly promises and reflected deeply on their role in administering the sacraments to God’s people. This sacred renewal is a powerful sign of communion with the bishop and commitment to a life of faithful and self-giving service.
Bishop Atuahene blessed the Oil of the Sick and the Oil of Catechumens, and consecrated the Sacred Chrism. These holy oils are essential in the sacramental life of the Church. The Oil of the Sick is used in the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, bringing comfort, healing, and strength to the ill and the dying.
The Oil of Catechumens is used during Baptism to strengthen those preparing to enter the Christian faith. The Sacred Chrism, a fragrant oil consecrated with prayer and balsam, is used in Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and the consecration of churches and altars, symbolizing the gift of the Holy Spirit and the call to holiness.
In his homily, Bishop Atuahene reflected on the remarkable growth of the diocesan clergy—from 18 priests at the founding of the diocese to 80 today—thanking God for this increase in laborers for His vineyard. He also remembered with affection and solemnity the deceased priests of the diocese, whose lives were marked by faithful service and quiet sacrifice.
The Bishop drew further inspiration from Michel Quoist’s reflection “The Priest on Sunday Night”, highlighting that the priesthood, while a noble and sacred calling, is not without its hardships. He reminded the clergy that, like the priest in Quoist’s prayer, they too carry the weight of their ministry and its quiet tiredness—but also its deep joy, rooted in Christ.
The celebration brought together clergy, religious, seminarians, health professionals,students and parishioners from St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral, creating an atmosphere of reverence, thanksgiving, and unity. The Chrism Mass remains a powerful symbol of the diocese’s spiritual vitality and the enduring grace that flows through the Church’s sacramental life.