Be a Good Moral Compass, Archbishop Tlhagale Tells Priests at Chrism Mass

by Daluxolo Moloantoa · April 8, 2023

(Image by Sheldon Reddiar)

“A priest’s good moral foundation is a basic requirement of the priesthood, and the inevitable moral compass of his congregation,” Archbishop of Johannesburg Buti Tlhagale OMI told all gathered at the Chrism Mass of the archdiocese of Johannesburg.

The Mass service was held at the Christ the King cathedral. In a strong homily on the holiness and moral authority of the priests, the archbishop highlighted the role of a priest’s holiness in the execution of his duties for his congregation.

“The quality of a priest’s holiness makes him an important instrument for building ethically upright virtues for himself and his congregation. His moral standing is looked upon to produce good Christians and good Catholics, “he said.

(Image by Sheldon Reddiar)

Attended by all priests from various areas in a diocese, the Chrism Mass is concelebrated by a bishop with the priests on Holy Thursday before the Easter triduum.

The archbishop administered the concentration of the sacred Chrism and the blessing of the Oil of Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick.

At the end of the Mass Monsignor Dario Pavisa, the temporary head of the Apostolic Nunciature thanked the archbishop and everyone gathered for a warm welcome. The Apostolic Nunciature is the diplomatic mission of the Holy See and is situated in Pretoria.

(Image by Sheldon Reddiar)

Copies of the Mass homily were handed out to all present and a document on the progression of the cause of the Servants of God Domitilla and Danny Hyams was also handed out.

The gathered priests and deacons received a key ring inscribed with the words “Called to Serve”. To his surprise, Archbishop Tlhagale also received a gift of new vestments. In closing the Mass, he led all the priests and those present in singing the Salve Regina.