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Chrism

Chrism is a consecrated oil used in Christian liturgy for anointing in several sacraments and rites. The term comes from the Greek khrisma, meaning anointing oil. In Western Christianity there are three holy oils: the Oil of the Catechumens, the Sacred Chrism, and the Oil of the Sick. The Sacred Chrism is olive oil perfumed with balsam and other fragrances, set apart for sacred use by a bishop.

Holy Chrism is prepared and consecrated by a bishop during the Chrism Mass, usually held in Holy

In baptism, the candidate is anointed with chrism on the crown of the head as a sign

The chrism signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit, the sealing with grace, and commissioning for mission.

In other Christian traditions, including Eastern Orthodoxy, Anglicanism, and some Lutheran churches, chrism and its use

Week.
The
bishop
prays
over
the
oil
and
blesses
it
so
it
may
be
used
throughout
the
diocese
for
the
year.
of
belonging
to
Christ.
In
confirmation,
the
forehead
is
anointed
with
chrism;
in
holy
orders,
the
hands
of
the
ordinand
are
anointed.
It
is
also
used
in
the
consecration
of
churches,
altars,
and
sacred
vessels.
The
fragrance
of
balsam
evokes
healing
and
sanctification.
share
a
common
symbolism,
though
rites
and
practices
may
differ.