You are invited to the celebration of the Chrism Mass at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. This custom, in which priests, deacons and the faithful gather with their bishop, continues to be a living, meaningful tradition.

This year, the Chrism Mass will include a celebratory undertone, given that we are observing Montreal's 375th anniversary. This beautiful liturgy will unfold in three solemn stages.

First, the Word of God presents the salvific offering as personified by Jesus who is intimately tied to each baptized person, inviting us to follow him along the path of service. Then, the Holy Oils are blessed and the Sacred Chrism consecrated. These oils recall the momentous steps taken by those who participate in life as children of God.

Finally, the Eucharist is celebrated In Cena domine, when, gathered around the table, we remain faithful to Jesus' exhortation: "Do this in remembrance of me."

Let us recall that the founding of Ville-Marie was inaugurated with a Mass celebrated on Saturday, May 17, 1642.

Baptism has made us children of God, devoted to praising and serving him as our many ancestors did before us. We, therefore, share so many reasons to gather in thanksgiving at the dawn of Montreal's 375th celebrations.