Ambry for Holy Oils and Sacred ChrismMany thanks to parishioner and woodworking artist Travis Porter for the beautiful new ambry. Travis designed the ambry to match our Sanctuary wood. The Maintenance Department worked with Travis to create the beautiful layout next to the Baptismal font. The Ambry is the place in a church where the Holy Oils and the Oil of Chrism are store. Our Ambry is located to the right of the Baptismal font as you enter the Baptistry area because of the relationship and use of two of the oils for baptisms. It contains three vessels of oil blessed by the Bishop and distributed to each parish during Holy Week. Oils are used throughout our lives to bless and strengthen us. A blessing with any of these three oils serves as an outward sign of God’s presence. The oil vessels are etched with letters. 
Sacred Oil of Catechumens - used to bless and strengthen those preparing for baptism. The top of the chest of the person to be baptized is anointed with this oil. It shows us that with Baptism, we put on Christ. Our lives change because He becomes our protector and strength.
Oil of the Sick - used by priests to bring Jesus' strength and healing to those who are seriously ill. The hands and foreheads of the sick are blessed as we pray for their healing.
Sacred Chrism - used to celebrate the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. The Chrism is made from olive oil and balsam. Its fragrance reminds us of the presence of God. We anoint the newly baptized with it as a sign of God’s life in them. It is used in Confirmation to reveal the presence of the Holy Spirit. In Holy Orders, the hands of the new priest are blest with this oil. It is also used to anoint altars when they are consecrated and to bless the walls of a church at its dedication.
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