DAR-ES-SALAAM, APRIL 23, 2019 (CISA)-The Archbishop of Dar-es-Salaam, Polycarp Cardinal Pengo expressed concern over Catholics procuring holy oils for the sick from other churches.
Speaking on Tuesday April 16, during Chrism Mass at St Joseph Cathedral in Dar-es-Salaam, he urged faithful not to be swayed from their Catholic faith.
“Do you know what kind of oil you are getting? This question really bothers me. Know that with this practice you are in fact alienating yourself from your own Church,” Cardinal Pengo told the faithful.
“Could it be because you do not understand the real meaning of the oils we use in Church? If so, then our priests (here) have the big task of teaching the faithful. Beware of Pastors of other Churches who tell our faithful that ‘even your priests and Bishops come to us.’ The celebration of (Chrism Mass today) reminds us that as baptised Christians, who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation, we have to stand firm in our beliefs and practices. Do not be easily swayed from your faith,” he added.
The Cardinal encouraged priests to anchor their faith on the Cross of Jesus.
“Priests too are called upon to help Jesus by carrying their own Crosses. The priesthood we receive is the priesthood of Jesus Christ and was fulfilled when Jesus took the Cross and offered the perfect sacrifice for the redemption of the world. As priests, we should continue to remember that every day. We walk in the footsteps of Christ,” Cardinal Pengo said.
