After our Lord’s Ascension,
The disciples gather in prayer with Mary to await the
Outpouring of the Holy Spirit. On Pentecost,
The Spirit descends on them as tongues of flame.
From Jerusalem they will carry the Gospel, the Good News,
To the ends of the earth. The Twelve Apostles manifest
The united leadership of Christ’s Church, which continues
Throughout history in the college of bishops with its
Visible head, the Pope. This shrine also expresses
The spiritual unity of our local Church;
The Holy Oils contained here,
When used in sacramental anointings, are visible signs
Of the strengthening, healing and sanctifying power
Of the Holy Spirit. Each year they are blessed
By the archbishop and his priests here in the mother Church
For use in sacramental celebrations
Throughout the Archdiocese.