The importance --- and simplicity --- of the sacramental life of the church was emphasized by Cardinal Roger Mahony at the annual Chrism Mass April 5 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.

Reminding the assembled priests, religious, deacons and laity of the deep meaning of the ceremony, Cardinal Mahony said, "The sacramental life of the church is a treasury of riches beyond telling. But for all its richly-laden layers of meaning, it is worth remembering that the whole sacramental life of the church in its entirety rests on four simple earthy elements: bread, wine, water, and oil. This evening we gather in celebration of oil, the oil of anointing --- the oil that soothes, strengthens, seals and saturates us with the Spirit."

And Cardinal Mahony reminded the assembly of their sacred connection with Jesus through the sacred oils.

"Through the anointing in the Oil of Catechumens and the Sacred Chrism, we become Christ figures, configured to Christ in the gift of the Spirit, sent on mission to a world so broken and divided, proclaiming in word and deed the unsearchable riches of God's love given in Christ Crucified and Risen."

The Chrism Mass, celebrated annually on Monday of Holy week, includes the blessing of the sacramental oils used the following year in the parishes. In addition, the priests of the archdiocese recommit themselves to their priestly vows and ministry.

This year's Mass also paid tribute to nine priests celebrating 50 years of priestly service. Cardinal Mahony introduced each to the assembly saying that standing here before you is "500 years of priestly service to the church."

"This was a beautiful way to start holy week," said Peggy Pigors, director of religious education at St. Clare Church in Santa Clarita. "The total effect of this week is spiritual and I feel blessed to be here."

Our Lady of the Valley (Canoga Park) parishioner Aileen Cecilia summed up the feelings of many of those attending this year's Chrism Mass when she said she came to "give glory to the creator." A sacristan at Our Lady of the Valley, Cecilia called the Chrism Mass an important and accessible sign of the tradition of the church for all Catholics.

Cardinal Mahony made no direct mention in his homily of the problems the church faces regarding lawsuits alleging clergy sexual abuse. He did say, "Especially at this time in the life of the Church, when we are aware of our brokenness and fragility, of our sin and our failure, we rely on the witness of those who, in their illness, suffering and diminishment, bear witness to the Annointed One who was emptied of power and strength so that he might become a balm for all wounds."

Some in attendance said they hope that the victims will receive the pastoral care and ministering they need.

"I'm here to support the survivors of sexual abuse, and I can't be Catholic without standing with them," said Mary Pitcher of St. Matthew Church in Long Beach. "I'm hoping that someday the pulpits will be open to survivors so we can hear their stories. They need to tell their stories in order to heal."

To read Cardinal Mahony's Chrism Mass homily, visit www.the-tidings.com.