the essential elements of this sacrament. Chrism, oil blessed by the bishop each Holy Thursday, is an apt symbol and medium of the sacrament. Oil is a sign of abundance. It cleanses and heals. Athletes use it to limber up and prepare for competition. It also hearkens back to the oil that was used to anoint the child at baptism. As the minister invokes the Holy Spirit in prayer over the candidate, he places his hands on the head of the candidate. In scriptural practice, the indwelling of the Holy