By Flavia Oyuu, Communications Office, Lira Diocese
The Bishop of Lira Diocese Rt Rev Sanctus Lino Wanok has called on Christians to live out their baptismal anointing by bringing hope, compassion and the Good News of Christ to those in need.
Speaking during the Chrism Mass at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, the Bishop reminded the faithful that every baptized person shares in the mission of Christ as priest, prophet and king.
He said Christians have every reason to thank God who, from eternity, has chosen them and called them to be members of His Church.
The Bishop explained that the Chrism Mass is a special celebration in which the Church blesses and consecrates the holy oils that will be used throughout the year in the administration of the sacraments.
He noted that the Oil of the Sick brings healing and comfort to those suffering from illness, old age, pain and despair, assuring them that God does not abandon His people in moments of weakness.
The Oil of Catechumens, he said, strengthens those preparing for baptism so that they may courageously embrace the Christian faith and resist evil.
He further explained that the Sacred Chrism, the most solemn of the oils, is used in baptism, confirmation, priestly ordination and the dedication of churches and altars, marking those who receive it as belonging to Christ.
According to the Bishop, the sacred oils are not ordinary symbols but powerful signs of God’s grace and closeness to His people.
Quoting the prophet Isaiah, he reminded the congregation that “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me,” explaining that to be anointed means to be chosen and sent to bring good news to the poor, heal the brokenhearted and proclaim freedom to the oppressed.
He emphasized that this mission belongs not only to priests and religious but to every baptized member of the Church.
“The Church is not somewhere far away; the Church is each one of us,” he said, urging Christians to recognize their responsibility in spreading the message of Christ.
The Bishop also reflected on the teaching of the Book of Revelation, noting that Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, has freed humanity from sin and made believers a kingdom of priests for God the Father.
He explained that Christ Himself is the true anointed one whose life and sacrifice on the cross, show believers how to endure the challenges of the world with faith and love.
During his homily, the Bishop Wanok also highlighted the importance of synodality, describing the Church as a community that walks together in faith, listens to one another and works together in mission.
A synodal Church, he said, is not one that remains closed in on itself but one that moves outward to proclaim the Good News and serve those in need.
He urged Christians to examine how they live their faith, asking whether they truly bring hope to the poor, care for the elderly and show compassion to those who suffer.
The Bishop also challenged the faithful to treat others with dignity, especially those who work for them, reminding them that Christian witness is shown in everyday acts of love and respect.
He concluded by calling on the faithful to allow the grace symbolized by the holy oils to transform their lives so that their families, parishes and communities may reflect the presence of Christ.
The Chrism Mass is celebrated annually during Holy Week and brings together priests from across the diocese who renew their priestly promises while the bishop blesses the oils used in the sacraments throughout the year.
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