Sacred Chrism

Sacred Chrism is a consecrated mixture of olive oil and a perfume called balsam. Blessed by the bishop of our archdiocese at the Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday morning, Sacred Chrism is used in the celebration of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. Anointing with Sacred Chrism represents the total pouring out of God's grace. The word "chrism" comes from the Greek title given to Jesus - "Christ" - which means "Anointed One" (cf. Luke 4:18; Acts 10:38). When one is anointed with Sacred Chrism, one is commissioned to continue the work of Jesus the Christ in the world. Through Christ, we too are "anointed ones" (cf. 1 John 2:20).