Chrismation meaning

Chrismation is a sacrament in the Eastern Orthodox Church where individuals receive the gift of the Holy Spirit through anointing with chrism oil.


Chrismation definitions

Word backwards noitamsirhc
Part of speech The word "chrismation" is a noun.
Syllabic division chris-ma-tion
Plural The plural of the word chrismation is chrismations.
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) i,a,o
Consonants (7) c,h,r,s,m,t,n

Chrismation is a sacred sacrament in the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and Eastern Catholic Churches. It is also known as confirmation in the Western Christian tradition. The sacrament of chrismation is typically performed by a bishop or priest and involves the anointing of the newly baptized individual with chrism, a consecrated oil.

The Significance of Chrismation

Chrismation is considered an essential part of the initiation process into the Church. It is believed to impart the gift of the Holy Spirit upon the individual, empowering them for their journey of faith. This sacrament is often seen as a seal of the blessings received during baptism, confirming and strengthening the believer in their commitment to Christ.

The Ritual of Chrismation

During the chrismation ceremony, the candidate is anointed with chrism on various parts of the body, including the forehead, eyes, nose, lips, ears, chest, hands, and feet. The priest or bishop invokes the Holy Spirit to descend upon the individual and bestow upon them the grace and strength needed to live a life of faith.

The History of Chrismation

Chrismation has its roots in the early Christian Church, where it was closely connected to baptism. Over time, the two sacraments became distinct, with chrismation following baptism in most Christian traditions. The oil used in chrismation is typically a mixture of olive oil and balsam, symbolizing the sweetness of the Christian life and the healing and nourishing presence of the Holy Spirit.

In conclusion, chrismation is a sacred sacrament that marks the beginning of a new chapter in the life of a Christian believer. Through the anointing with chrism and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, the individual is sealed with the gift of grace and strength to walk the path of faith with confidence and dedication.


Chrismation Examples

  1. During the chrismation ceremony, the newly baptized individual receives the sacrament of confirmation.
  2. The chrismation oil used in the Orthodox Church is a mixture of olive oil and fragrant spices.
  3. Chrismation is one of the holy mysteries or sacraments in Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches.
  4. In the early church, chrismation was often administered immediately after baptism.
  5. The chrismation service signifies the bestowal of the gifts of the Holy Spirit upon the recipient.
  6. Chrismation is a rite of passage that symbolizes the sealing of the believer with the Holy Spirit.
  7. The chrismation ceremony includes the anointing of the forehead, eyes, nose, mouth, and ears of the recipient.
  8. In some traditions, chrismation is administered by a bishop, while in others it can be done by a priest.
  9. The chrismation oil is consecrated by the bishop during a special service known as the chrismation.
  10. For many Orthodox Christians, chrismation is a sacred and significant step in their spiritual journey.


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  • Updated 15/05/2024 - 22:15:11