Each year during Holy Week, one of the beautiful traditions of our Catholic faith takes place at the Chrism Mass, celebrated by the bishop together with the priests of the diocese. At this Mass, usually celebrated during Holy Week, the bishop blesses and consecrates the holy oils that will be used throughout the coming year in every parish of the diocese.

On Holy Thursday, these oils were solemnly brought into our church at St. Matthew as a visible reminder of our unity with the bishop and the larger Church. The same oils blessed by our bishop are used here in our parish to celebrate the sacraments and care for God’s people.

The Church uses three holy oils, each with a special purpose.

The Oil of Catechumens (Oleum Catechumenorum) is used in preparation for Baptism, especially for infants and those entering the Church through the RCIA process. It is a sign of God’s strength and protection, preparing the person to reject sin and embrace new life in Christ.

The Oil of the Sick (Oleum Infirmorum) is used in the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. Through this anointing, the Church prays for healing, strength, peace, and God’s grace for those who are seriously ill, preparing for surgery, weakened by age, or nearing the end of earthly life.

Sacred Chrism (Sacrum Chrisma) holds a unique place among the oils because it is consecrated, not simply blessed. Mixed with fragrant balsam, it carries a sweet aroma as a reminder of the “fragrance of Christ.” It is used at Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders, as well as in the dedication of churches and altars. Through Sacred Chrism, people and sacred things are set apart for God’s holy purpose.

Here at St. Matthew, we continue a beautiful parish custom during the Easter season. After being brought into the church on Holy Thursday, the holy oils remain in the sanctuary throughout Easter near the Paschal Candle, which burns during this joyful season as a sign of the Risen Christ present among us.

Then, on the Feast of Pentecost, marking the close of the Easter season, the Paschal Candle—which has remained lit throughout Easter—is extinguished and returned to its place near the baptismal font. At that time, the holy oils are reverently placed in the ambry, the special cabinet near the baptismal font where they are kept throughout the year.

These signs remind us of something beautiful: from our Baptism to healing in sickness, from Confirmation to priestly ordination, the grace of God touches every stage of Christian life. The holy oils are not merely symbols—they are sacred signs through which Christ continues to bless, strengthen, heal, and sanctify His people.

As you see the holy oils in our church, may they remind you that God’s grace is active and present in every season of our lives.