By Tim Harfmann
Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio blessed the sacred oils used to administer the Church’s sacraments. The oils sanctify the sick, baptize new Catholics, ordain priests, and anoint altars. “The oil that’s blessed will be used in every parish, in every hospital. Those receiving sacraments, those who will be coming into the Church and receive the various anointings — they will use the oil that the bishop himself consecrates,” said Father John O’Connor, Director of the Liturgy Office for the Brooklyn diocese.
With nearly 300 hands extended, almost every priest from Brooklyn and Queens joined in the blessing. “From ancient times, the bishop gathered with his presbyterate during the days of Holy Week, and we continue to do the day. We’re very blessed in Brooklyn. We might have traffic, but we’re close to each other,” said Father O’Connor. They stood shoulder-to-shoulder as the priests and deacons renewed their vows.
In his homily, Bishop DiMarzio spoke of the Church’s mission to protect minors from abuse; “We must — and we can — do better. We must make reparation for the past, as well as making sure that this type of abuse never occurs again.”
NET-TV is the place to be for Holy Week coverage. The full Holy Week television schedule is posted at netny.tv.