Your Question: What is Chrism oil used for?

Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balsam (balm) that is used to anoint people at Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. It is also used in the blessing of an altar, liturgical vessels, churches, and holy water. Chrism is blessed by the bishop for these uses. Why do we use Chrism? Catholics anoint people and objects (pour oil on them) to single them out as something sacred. Chrism is specially noted for its sweet smell that comes from the balsam added to the olive oil. The smell reminds us of the sweetness of Christan virtue. Additionally, balsam preserves things from corruption. Chrism is one of three oils that are blessed at the Chrism Mass before Easter each year, along with the oil of Catechumens, and that of the sick.