Every year during Holy Week, services are held at which the Clergy and Readers of the Diocese are invited to reaffirm before the Bishop the promises and commitments they have made in their ministry. At the same time, the oils that are used throughout the year for ministry to the sick, for Christian initiation, and for ordination are set aside. 

This year, both Bishop Robert and Bishop Andrew officiated at 6 Chrism Eucharists held in various chaplaincies across the diocese.  Here are reflections following some of these services: 

From Rev James Hadley, All Saints, Milan 

"It is always a special occasion to gather together as brothers and sisters in Christ from throughout the Archdeaconry of Italy and Malta, and beyond.  We welcomed Bishop Robert and Helen to Milan for the Chrism Eucharist, as we worshipped and prayed together, renewing our promises to serve the People of God as ministers of the Gospel, and blessing the oils which will be used in the ministry of our churches.  Through anointing and the laying on of hands, we welcome new Christians, heal and sustain the troubled, and empower ministry.  

For our opening hymn we used the late Bishop Geoffrey Rowell's trinitarian text set to the tune Ode to Joy. Upon hearing the hymn for the first time at Bishop Andrew's installation at the Gibraltar cathedral, I knew it would make an excellent choice for the Chrism Eucharist. Easy to sing and celebratory, the text recalls the faith of the Nicene Creed which we celebrate this year. Creeds also often developed in the early church in a baptismal context as professions of faith.  Those to be baptised would confess their faith before entering the water bath.  Singing Geoffrey's hymn in proximity to Easter when many Christians are baptised recalls this connection. In the context of the Chrism Eucharist the hymn also highlights the renewal of vows to ministry which flow from our profession of faith in the Triune God.” 

Information about Bishop Geoffrey Rowell’s hymn referred to above can be found here: Celebrating Nicaea: Music Resources | Diocese in Europe 

Images at All Saints Milan taken by Tia Ann Chapman:

St Georges, Madrid 

“What a joyful and spirit-filled occasion it was to welcome Bishop Robert and clergy from across Spain and Portugal to St. George’s, Madrid! The church was alive with energy as Lay Ministers, Deacons, Priests, and Bishop Robert came together to renew their heartfelt commitment to ministry. 

The service was a powerful moment of unity and purpose — a reminder of the shared calling and dedication to serve. Afterwards, the celebration continued with a light lunch in the church hall, where laughter, conversation, and fellowship flowed freely.”  Adam Hill 

St Ursula’s Church, Berne 

“Visiting St Ursula’s Church, Berne, for the first time, and attending there my first ever Chrism Eucharist, provided me food for thought in the subsequent days. As the service took place on the Monday in Holy Week, I realised the significance of the blessing of the oils that are used throughout the year. This is part of the preparation for the Paschal Triduum; it contributes to the spiritual preparation of the Church for the marking and celebration of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection. And the Chrism service was a special moment of unity for me, as lay ministers, deacons and priests from the Swiss chaplaincies gathered in person with our new Suffragan Bishop to renew our commitment to ministry. These realisations meant a lot to me.” Revd Betty Talbot 

“This was the first time I'd been to a Chrism service, as I'm not usually able to go to church because of work. It was very meaningful for me to renew my ordination vows, to meet Bishop Andrew, and to see our chaplains and other ministers face to face (and not just via video conferencing). The Chrism service will now be a highlight of my year.” Revd. Dr. James M. Morgan 

Holy Trinity, Cannes 

"The Chaplaincy of Holy Trinity Church in Cannes was pleased to host the Chrism Eucharist for the deanery of south-east France on the Wednesday of Holy Week. The service was led by Bishop Alison White, assisted by Archdeacon Peter Hooper, as chapter colleagues and lay ministers gathered for the service which included a renewal of commitment for ministry and the reception and blessing of holy oils. 

The chaplaincy hosted a lunch for the visitors which gave an opportunity for people to enjoy a meal together and catch up face to face. Holy oils were distributed to the clergy for use in their ministry in this year ahead." Revd Andy Brewerton