The Holy Oils

In Cathedrals around the world, bishops bless the holy oils at the "Chrism Mass" celebrated on Holy Thursday morning (or earlier in Holy Week). The Church uses three sacramental oils:

• The Oil of Catechumens: used to strengthen those who are preparing for baptism at the Easter vigil.
• The Oil of the Sick: Used for healing of the mind, body and spirit.
• The Holy Chrism: Used at baptism, confirmation, ordination and the dedication of a church building.

The holy oils are kept in a chest called the "ambry" which comes from a Latin word meaning an "armory"- a place to store arms.

In recent years the Church, returning to a fuller expression of its sacred symbols, displays these oils in an ambry that is more ornate and prominent.

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On this day, the collection taken at Mass is always for the poor. It's also the day when people usually bring their rice bowl to church.