Question: On more than one occasion I have been at a Chrism Mass (in the Roman rite) where, afterward, when the holy oils were distributed for the parishes, there was a mix-up and either the oil of catechumens or the holy chrism was placed in the wrong oil stock. This is a serious issue since, according to some authors, the use of the wrong oil invalidates the sacrament of confirmation. The source of the confusion seemed to be the diversity of symbols used for the different oils. I have tried to make an exhaustive list of those in common use. So far, I have found for the oil of catechumens: OC, OS, B, S, Cat; for the holy chrism: SC, C, Chr, Ch; and for the oil of the sick: OI, I, Inf. Are you aware of any other symbols? Also, is there an official liturgical source for the colors usually attributed to the oils, and with which they are decorated in the Chrism Mass, or is this just a custom? Finally, what is the best practical way to mix balsam with the oil for the holy chrism? Some liturgical shops sell balsam, but instructions for incorporating it are hard to find. — J.D., Wagga Wagga, Australia
