Secondary School students from the Sudbury Catholic District School Board were invited to share in a very special mass celebrated at Ste Anne des Pins recently. In every diocese throughout the world, the Mass of Chrism is concelebrated by the Diocesan Bishop and representatives of the priests from all parts of the diocese. The sacred mass is a sign of the unity and communion between the priests and their bishop and is traditionally celebrated in the Cathedral of the diocese during Holy Week.

For many years, the Diocese of Sault Ste-Marie has held this mass at the Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption in North Bay, however in recent years, it has been celebrated in Sault Ste-Marie and Sudbury as well as North Bay on alternating years.

This year, Bishop Plouffe issued a special invitation to students of the 19 Catholic High Schools located in the diocese to join in the mass as special guests. Priests of the diocese, along with representatives of the deacons, Diocesan Order of Service and religious Sisters were also present.

During this Mass, the Bishop consecrated the oils to be used for the Sacraments of Baptism, Ordination, and Anointing of the Sick in parishes throughout the coming year. In addition, priests of the diocese renewed their commitment to serve God’s people.

In the spirit of reaching out to the youth of the diocese, Bishop Plouffe asked 19 talented young people from the Sudbury area to lead the congregation in prayer and music.