The Chrismal Mass on Tuesday evening incorporates three important elements: the blessing of the sacramental oils for the next year,
the rededication of the clergy to continued service,
and communion.
As we move with Jesus towards his Passion and our own suffering, each part of the service communicates the wide, deep, full love of God.
My Prayer
Lover of us all, help me to see the deeper meaning of seemingly simple acts. Help me to perceive the Love that connects everything.
Invitation to Prayer
How is God’s love reaching you, even touching you, during this time of separation and even isolation? How is your heart longing to respond?
Scriptural Touchstone
« As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. » Jesus, John 15:9 NRSV
Images
All images were taken during Chrismal masses in the Chartres Cathedral during the past decade.
To Understand the Images Better:
Jesus’s face in the Passion Window as he predicts his death to his disciples (1145-55)
Holy Week Posts 2020:
Posts from recent blogs:
Images of Death in Chartres Cathedral
Life and Death
Talking about Death
Suffering
Hanging On Before Letting Go
Goodbye
Considering Our Lives
Possibilities in Times of Grief
Pray with Jill Geoffrion 
Thank you for reminding me of the Tuesday night service in Chartres. I was especially touched seeing all the clergy gathered around the altar. It’s always been a moving time of rededication for ministry for me. Your photos prompt me to both remember and to renew my vows and intentions once again.
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I wish I could locate the text for the renewal of vows. It is always a highlight of my year too. Here’s what I did find, the refrain between each set of vows: Rénovation des promesses d’ordination: Es-prit de Dieu, in-ter-cè-de pour nous, veins au se-cours de no-tre fai-bles-se.”
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