While Thursday morning of Holy Week is the traditional time for the celebration of the Chrism Mass , because of the geography of the Christchurch diocese the celebration of this Mass on the Monday evening of Holy Week enables more of the priests and people of the diocese to take part in this beautiful ceremony. In this liturgy the oils to be used in the celebration of the sacraments are blessed, and  the priests of the diocese renew their priestly commitment.

My sense is that the people of the diocese gather to support and pray for their priests.

Thank you!