Oil to Be Consecrated by Pope on Holy Thursday Comes from Croatia

VATICAN CITY, APRIL 16, 2003 (Zenit.org).- The oil that John Paul II will consecrate on Holy Thursday comes fromCroatia. 

The congregation of women religious founded by Mary of Jesus Crucified Petkovic, whom the Pope will beatify on June 6 during his visit toCroatia, delivered the oil to the Vatican last week. 

The oil was donated by the Croatian community of the Congregation of the Daughters of Mercy and by the authorities of Blato, birthplace of the future blessed, Vatican Radio reported. 

The oil is, in part, an expression of Blato's gratitude for the papal visit and the beatification of Mary of Jesus Crucified Petkovic. Blato is located on the island ofKorcula, on the Adriatic coast. 

In keeping with the liturgy, before the consecration the oil will be divided in three parts: for chrism, catechumens and the sick. 

Last year's Christmas tree, placed near the Nativity scene in St. Peter's Square, was also a gift from Croatia. 
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Larry Cirignano
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