Chrism vessels are the containers that hold the oils solemnly consecrated by the Diocesan bishop during Maundy Thursday. The priests will use the oils yearly to perform the corresponding rituals.
The sacred oils consecrated by the bishop are the oil of the catechumens, oil of the sick, and chrism.
The chrism is the oil that gives the chrism vessels their name.
Holy Oil containers come in different shapes and sizes, but they generally resemble small jars or cylindrical boxes of a small size for easy transport. They are made of materials that are not susceptible to oxidation, as they must preserve the oil of the catechumens, oil of the sick, and chrism adequately.
It's common that when purchasing a set of chrism vessels with the same external appearance, each of the containers is labeled with the letters INF (or I), CHR, and CAT to distinguish which oil is inside.
The letters INF (or I) for the oil of the sick; the letters CAT for the oil of the catechumens; and the letters CHR for the chrism.
The letters INF to designate the chrism vessel that stores the oil for the sick come from the Latin expression Oleum Infirmorum, that is, oil for the sick.
This holy oil is used to administer the sacrament of the anointing of the sick, formerly known as extreme unction. Through this sacrament, an effort is made to give strength to the sick for their rapid recovery or to provide comfort to those who are near death.
The Oil for Catechumens prepares those who wish to receive Baptism, whether adults or babies.
This oil is used for anointing before Baptism. In the case of babies, anointing is usually performed in the same baptism ceremony in the presence of parents and godparents.
Adults may receive anointing before the baptism ceremony.
This oil is a symbol of Christ and serves to assist in the spiritual preparation of new Church members.
Chrism is an essential oil. Its name comes from the Greek word "Christos," a term from which the name of Christ (The Anointed One) derives.
Chrism is used in the sacraments of Baptism, confirmation, and holy orders. It is also used to consecrate newly purchased sacred vessels and newly constructed churches.
Chrism is an oil comprising two elements: olive oil and balsam.
Olive oil is an element that has traditionally had great importance in human history.
It has been widely used in religious celebrations, priest consecrations, and all kinds of religious ceremonies, as recorded in the Old Testament.
Balsam is an aromatic and resinous substance extracted from plants.
There is evidence that early Christians used an aromatic ointment very similar to what we now know as balsam.
Chrism vessels or oil containers are sacred vessels or jars with a lid where the Holy Oils and Chrism are stored.
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