On March 31, 2026, clergy from across the Diocese of Long Island gathered at the Cathedral of the Incarnation for the annual Chrism Mass, a solemn liturgy held during the busy days of Holy Week. The service, which included the Blessing of Holy Oils and the Reaffirmation of Ordination Vows, served as a moment of communal prayer and spiritual renewal for the priests and deacons serving the diocese.
The Rt. Rev. Lawrence C. Provenzano, Bishop of Long Island, presided and preached at the liturgy, which marked his final Chrism Mass as Diocesan Bishop.
A Message to the Clergy: Building a House for the Future
In a sermon directed toward the gathered clerics, Bishop Provenzano expressed his profound "gratitude and love" for the hardworking and diverse clergy of the diocese. He acknowledged the "inconvenience" of gathering in the midst of Holy Week—a time often consumed by the "busyness" of printing bulletins and composing sermons.
However, the Bishop warned that this busyness can often be "hopelessness disguised," leading clergy to become "mere functionaries" who neglect their own spiritual lives.
"I implore you to do less and be more," the Bishop stated. "Make holy this week by your prayer... Remembering that Easter is a season, not a deadline."
A Life of Sacrificial Devotion
A notable moment was celebrated during the Chrism Mass as the Rev. Joanne Izzo, Priest-in-Charge at St. Peter's by-the-Sea in Bay Shore, took a vow of celibacy.
While celibacy is not a requirement for priests in the Episcopal Church, it is recognized as a particular gift. For those called to it, this vow represents a path of sacrificial self-giving, supporting the life and work of the priest as a wholesome example of Christ’s love for the Church.
Following the liturgy, clergy gathered for a luncheon at the Mercer School, where they also collected the holy oils prepared for their respective parishes.
Recordings of the full service and the sermon, along with photos from the event are available below.