What is a chrism and when is it used?

Answer 1

Sacred Chrism is the perfumed oil used at Confirmation. It is typically olive oil with balsam for a beautiful scent and is blessed by the Bishop at the Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday. It is used after Baptism on the head of the newly baptized. It is also used on the forehead at Confirmation. Finally, it is used on the hands of priests at ordination.

Answer 2

Catholic AnswerAnointing with the Sacred Chrism is a sign of the Holy Ghost which designates a Christian as a priest, prophet and king. Chrism, a mixture of olive oil and balsam is consecrated by the Bishop and is used in the administration of baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders; in the blessing of Church bells, baptismal water, and in the consecration of Churches, altars, chalices, and patens.

from The Catechism of the Catholic Church, second edition, English translation 1994

1241 The anointing with Sacred Chrism, perfumed oil consecrated by the bishop, signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit to the newly baptized, who has become a Christian, that is, one "anointed" by the Holy Spirit incorporated into Christ who is anointed priest, prophet, and king. (Cf. Rite of Baptism of Children, 62)

1289 Very early, the better to signify the gift of the Holy Spirit, an anointing with perfumed oil (chrism) was added to the laying on of hands. This anointing highlights the name "Christian," which means "anointed" and derives from that of Christ himself whom God "anointed with the Holy Spirit." (Acts10:38) This rite of anointing has continued ever since, in both East and West. For this reason the Eastern Churches call this sacrament Chrismation, anointing with Chrism, or myron which means "chrism." In the West, the term Confirmation suggests that this sacrament both confirms baptism and strengthens baptismal grace.

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1294 Anointing with oil has all these meanings in the sacramental life [sign of anointing and what it signifies and imprints: a spiritual seal. Anointing, in Biblical and other ancient symbolism, is rich in meaning: oil is a sign of abundance and joy; (Cf. Deut 11:14; Pss 23:5; 104:15) it cleanses {anointing before and after a bath} and limbers {the anointing of athletes and wrestlers}; oil is a sign of healing, since it is soothing to bruises and wounds; (Cf. Isa 1:6; Lk 10:34) and it makes radiant with beauty, health, and strength.] in the sacramental life. The pre-baptismal anointing with the oil of catechumens signifies cleansing and strengthening; the anointing of the sick expresses healing and comfort. The post-baptismal anointing with Sacred Chrism in Confirmation and ordination is the sign of consecration. By Confirmation Christians, that is, those who are anointed, share more completely in the mission of Jesus Christ and the fullness of the Holy Spirit with which he is filled, so that their lives may give off "the aroma of Christ." (2 Cor 2:15)

Answer 3

Sacred Chism (Myhrr) - it is used to anoint at Baptisim and also Consecration and has been done so for many years, people are anointed to receive the "gift" of the Holy Spirit.