The oil of catechumens, also known as the oil of exorcism, is the oil used in some traditional Christian churches during baptism; it is believed to strengthen the one being baptized to turn away from evil, temptation and sin.
The oil of exorcism was mentioned in the ancient Christian apostolic tradition as being "used before baptisms to put to flight any contagions that might obstruct the impending baptismal graces".[1] The Egyptian Church Order teaches that it is blessed during the Easter Vigil, the first liturgy of Eastertide.[1]
The catechumen, the person prepared for baptism, is also anointed as a symbol of being the heir of the Kingdom of God, as kings and queens are anointed at coronations, and empowered for their Christian life as prophets were anointed for their ministry.
The oil of catechumens is intended to help strengthen the person about to be baptized, and prepare them for the struggle (ascesis) of the Christian life, the way a wrestler in ancient Greece and Rome was anointed before a wrestling match.
- ^ a b "Chrism Mass". Catholic Review. Archdiocese of Baltimore. March 27, 2008. Archived from the original on 13 April 2017.