Baptism - Chrismation - the Eucharist The Gates of Entry into the Kingdom of God

Holy Chrismation (which happens after the invocation of the Holy Spirit in the Baptism service) is a gift of Christ and the Holy Spirit, and it works through the presence of His Divinity. During Chrismation, the forehead, eyes, ears, nostrils, mouth, chest, hands, and feet are anointed with Holy Chrism. While the body is anointed with visible oil, the soul is sanctified by the Holy and life-giving Spirit.

We are anointed on the forehead so that we might be freed from the shame of Adam and Eve’s transgression; on the ears so that we might obey the Church’s Holy Mysteries (sacraments); on the nostrils so that we might perceive the sweet fragrance of Christ; and then on the chest so that, wearing a breastplate of righteousness, we might stand firm against the snares of the devil.

To be Chrismated is to put on the armour of the Holy Spirit, who protects us from evil powers. Before being counted worthy to receive this grace, we are still on the path towards becoming Christian. It is only through Holy Chrismation that we can call ourselves Christian.