Patriarch and the founder of CCOA, Herman Adrian Spruit, once wrote, “Holy oils are a sacred modality, the use of which extends across the entire span of the scared tradition …”  Patriarch Herman also taught us that one experiences God’s love and grace when anointed with these oils.

During the Chrism Mass, olive oil is blessed for the Oil of the Sick and the Oil of Catechumens and olive oil with balsam is used for the Chrism Oil. The bishops of the church, led by the presiding bishop, ask God to bless each of the three oils, which are then distributed to the clergy for use during the upcoming year.

Bishop Theodore giving the homily.

Father Ron processing with oil before the blessings, with Sean standing by.

Presiding Bishop Mark, with Deacon Richard’s assistance, pouring balsam into oil for the Chrism Oil blessings.

The bishops requesting God to bless the oils.

 Presiding Bishop Mark.