On Monday evening, April 14, 2025, the faithful from across the Diocese of Charlottetown gathered together with priests and religious men and women at St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral for the celebration of the Chrism Mass—always a moment of great unity and grace in the life of the Church.
During this solemn liturgy, the Oil of the Sick and the Oil of Catechumens were blessed, and the Sacred Chrism was consecrated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph Dabrowski, the 14th Bishop of Charlottetown. This year’s celebration held special meaning, as Bishop Joseph also marked the 10th anniversary of his episcopal ordination. He began the Mass with words of welcome in French, expressing joy at being gathered with so many of the faithful, clergy, and religious from across the Island.
He said, “What a joy it is to come together in the Eucharist and witness this powerful sign of the Church’s mission: to heal, to sanctify, and to proclaim the Gospel. The Chrism Mass is also a privileged moment for the priests of the diocese, who stood together to renew their priestly promises—reaffirming their commitment to serve Christ with fidelity, compassion, and joy. We ask for your continued prayers for our priests, that they may always be faithful shepherds, guided by the Spirit of the Lord.
We also gave thanks for our Jubilarian priests who celebrate milestone anniversaries of their ordination this year. Their witness is a gift and inspiration to us all.”
This year’s Chrism Mass carried even greater spiritual meaning in the context of the Jubilee Year. St. Dunstan’s, as our mother Church, has been designated an official site for receiving the Jubilee plenary indulgence. In this way, our local celebration is deeply united with the Holy Father and the whole Universal Church.
With hearts full of gratitude, we continue to pray that we may always be pilgrims of hope, anointed by the Spirit to bring Good News to the world.
