The 2025 Chrism Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, April 16th, at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich. The Most Rev. Christopher J. Coyne, Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Norwich, presided over the sacred liturgy, which marks a highlight of Holy Week.
This special Mass featured the blessing of the holy oils—used throughout the year for sacraments such as Baptism, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders—and the Renewal of Priestly Promises by the clergy of the Diocese.
We invite you to watch the video of the full Mass, especially Archbishop Coyne’s inspiring homily, which offered a deeply honest and hope-filled vision for the Church today.
Reflecting on a church bell inscription—"To the bath and the table, to the prayers and the word I call every seeking soul"—Archbishop Coyne opened with a call to return to the heart of Christian life: worship, community, and mission. He acknowledged the reality of declining Mass attendance and aging congregations, asking, “Where are the young people? Where are the families?”
Yet, rather than despair, he offered hope: “We should never apologize for who we are. We bring the Good News to a culture that needs to hear it.”
In a special moment of encouragement, Archbishop Coyne expressed confidence in the future of the Diocese, highlighting “hope in your bishop-elect, Richard Reidy—a very good man.” He also spoke of the strength found in the clergy, religious, and lay faithful, and in the diocese’s emergence from bankruptcy proceedings. Most especially, he emphasized hope in the Church as the Mystical Body of Christ, “infused with the grace of the Holy Spirit.”
He reminded all present that the Church must move from being a “stationary Church” to a “missionary Church,” one that meets people where they are and brings them into communion with Christ. Echoing Pope Francis’ invitation to go out to the peripheries, he challenged both clergy and laity to radiate the joy of the Gospel and make our parishes places of welcome and joy.
To those discouraged by cultural shifts and spiritual apathy, Archbishop Coyne offered reassurance: “We are not orphans. We are sons and daughters, infused with the Spirit, brought into the communion of love.”
Whether you attended in person or are watching from home, this liturgy offers a powerful way to reflect on the meaning of Holy Week and the sacred role of the priesthood.
➡ Watch below to watch the 2025 Chrism Mass and homily.