01Section 1
The Sacrament of Chrismation
- Holy Chrism is a specially prepared oil blessed by a bishop, often containing many fragrant substances.
- The priest anoints the newly baptized on the forehead, eyes, nostrils, lips, ears, chest, hands, and feet.
- At each anointing, the priest says: 'The seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit.'
- Chrismation is the personal Pentecost of each Christian — the direct gift of the Spirit.
02Section 2
Chrismation and Baptism
- Baptism and Chrismation are administered together, immediately followed by First Communion — even for infants.
- This unified initiation reflects the unity of the sacramental life of the Church.
- In the West, Confirmation is separated from Baptism by years; Orthodoxy preserves the ancient unified rite.
- Converts received into the Church may receive Chrismation alone if their Baptism is accepted as valid.
03Section 3
The Meaning of the Seal
- The 'seal' marks the Christian as belonging to God — a royal priesthood, set apart for His service.
- The anointing echoes the anointing of kings and prophets in the Old Testament.
- The Holy Spirit given in Chrismation empowers the Christian for the spiritual struggle.
- The gifts of the Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, fear of the Lord) are bestowed through the anointing.
Next Steps