Chrism Eucharist at St Canice’s Cathedral
Preaching at the Chrism Eucharist on Maundy Thursday at St Canice’s Cathedral in Kilkenny, the Bishop of Cashel, Ferns and Ossory, the Rt Revd Adrian Wilkinson asked, ‘in our world of AI and fake news, where in some instances what is termed ‘truth’ changes on a daily, if not hourly basis, it is worth asking ourselves, is truth just something we can bend at our convenience to suit our own ends or is it more substantial and robust than that?’ Bishop Wilkinson went on to refer to the encounter between Jesus and Pontious Pilate in John chapter 18, where Pilate asks, ‘What is truth?’ Throughout the New Testament he said, ‘it refers to God’s revelation made known through Jesus Christ – in his coming, life, teaching, actions, death and resurrection. The incarnate one is ‘full of grace and truth.’… At a time when the loudest voices, the modern-day Herod’s and Pilates, dare I say even the modern-day Caiaphas appear to be in the ascendent, it is more important than ever that we point towards the truth of God’s universal love.’
As is customary at the Chrism Eucharist the bishop, clergy and those involved in licensed lay ministry in the diocese, renewed their commitment to their particular ministry and the oils of healing, baptism and chrism were blessed by the bishop.
Those involved in aspects of the service included two people who are training for ordination to the full-time ministry, the children’s ministry officer, Pioneer Ministry as well as some clergy. The congregation included the staff from the Diocesan Office and a number of local parishioners and lay people from around the diocese.
Concluding the service, Bishop Wilkinson thanked the clergy, diocesan readers and those involved in lay ministry and administration in the Diocese in the way they embody an attitude of love in service. ‘This is the truth we proclaim today and every time we celebrate the eucharist. Go today from here encouraged in your ministry and share this truth by your words and in your actions at a time when the world so desperately needs to hear it.’
Following the service the clergy, readers and others were invited by Bishop Adrian and Jacqui Wilkinson to enjoy lunch together at the Bishop’s House, before heading back to their own parishes to begin the most solemn three days – known as the Triduum – in the Church’s calendar.