Sunday, January 25, 2009

Sunday Off-Topic: Mass of the Oils

Every Introduction course always has its off-topic tangents, and Catholicism 101 is no different. On Sundays, we'll delve into some aspects of Catholicism that we might not otherwise get to. These areas are kind of up to my whim, but they will usually focus on unusual parts of Catholicism.

The Chrism Mass usually takes place on the Thursday before Easter, and all the priests in the local diocese are asked to be present, if possible. At this Mass, the bishop blesses olive oil in large multi-gallon containers to be distributed to each parish and priest throughout the diocese. Three types of oils are blessed at this annual Mass:

The Oil of Catechumens - Used to bless people before they are baptized. Also used for catechumens - students of the faith seeking to join the Church through baptism.

The Oil of the Sick - Used when administering the Sacrament of the Annointing of the Sick, formerly called Last Rites, or Extreme Unction.

Chrism Oil - For newly baptized members, confirmands (those being officially added into the Church) and for those being ordained into the priesthood. Chrism is made from olive oil, but balsam is added to give it a more appealing aroma.

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