Chrism mass marks final celebration before the Paschal Triduum |02 April 2026

Bishop Harel solemnly blessed and consecrated the holy oils and received the renewal of priestly promises during yesterday’s Chrism mass (Photos: Diocese of Port-Victoria)

On Holy Wednesday, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception welcomed priests and faithful from across the diocese for the solemn celebration of the Chrism Mass, presided over by Bishop Alain Harel.

This celebration held profound significance as it was the final diocesan liturgical gathering before the Paschal Triduum, the most sacred period in the life of the church. It also marked the last Chrism mass presided over by Bishop Alain Harel alongside his brother priests, making the moment both spiritually rich and deeply symbolic.
During the celebration, Bishop Harel solemnly blessed and consecrated the holy oils – oil of Chrism, oil of the Sick, and oil of the Catechumens – which will be used throughout the year in the sacraments of the church. Bishop Harel also received the renewal of priestly promises.

Notably, these sacred oils will also be used for the episcopal ordination of Landry Philippe Rasamison scheduled for April 12, giving this year’s Chrism mass an added dimension of grace and continuity in the life of the diocese.
In his homily, Bishop Harel reflected on the profound significance of the holy oils as signs of healing, strength, consecration, and mission. He reminded priests of the beauty and responsibility of their vocation – a call not to power, but to humble service.
Referring to the appointment of Bishop-elect Landry Rasamison, he noted that, after a long process of discernment, the Holy Father has chosen Fr Landry not as a promotion, but as a mission of service to God’s people. This message resonated as a call to all to embrace leadership as service, rooted in faith and love.
Bishop Harel also took the opportunity to express his heartfelt gratitude to those who have accompanied him in his ministry. He acknowledged in a special way the dedication of the staff of the Bishop’s secretariat, the religious communities, and his closest collaborators, including Fr Lonnie Adrienne, Fr Edwin Mathiot, and Fr Eric Léon, whose support has been instrumental throughout his pastoral mission.
This Chrism mass therefore stands as a moment of transition, unity, and thanksgiving, as the diocese prepares to enter both the Paschal Triduum and a new chapter in its journey.
Bishop Alain Harel is expected to address the people of Seychelles during the Easter celebrations, offering a message of hope, renewal, and faith.

Press release – Diocese of Port-Victoria