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Catholic Guide to the Holy Oils: What does OC, OS, OI, and SC all mean? What are Sacred Chrism, Oil of Catechumens, and the Oil of the Infirm used for?

Scott Smith May 08, 2025
The Catholic Church uses three holy oils: Sacred Chrism, Oil of Catechumens, and Oil of the Sick. These oils are blessed or consecrated by the Bishop during the Chrism Mass. 

If you're an altar server or sacristan -- or even a deacon of priest -- the various oils may still be confusing. I know it's been a tough one for me. 




Here's the breakdown:
  • Sacred Chrism
    • SC for Sanctum Chrisma 
    • Sacraments: used for the Sacrament of Confirmation and Baptism   
    • Ingredients: made from olive oil and balsam 
  • Oil of Catechumens
    • OC for Oleum Catechumenorum, also OS for Oleum Sanctum, also "Oil of Exorcism" - at our Church, I'm pretty sure the canister says OC and the cruet says OS, so heads up! 
    • Sacraments: only used for the pre-Baptized, the pre-Baptized are called "catechumens" (pl. catechumenate)
    • Ingredients: made from olive oil only  
  • Oil of the Sick
    • OI for Oleum Infirmorum, also called Oil of Healing 
    • Sacrament: used in the Anointing of Sick
    • Ingredients: made from olive oil only

Does this help? Does this resolve all the confusion? Please let me know if you have any more questions! 

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2 Comments

Roblox Doors said…
What a fascinating exploration of the holy oils! I appreciate how you broke down each type and their significance in the sacraments. Could you elaborate on how these oils are sourced or prepared? I’d love to learn more about doodle baseball the traditions behind them! Thank you for sharing this insightful guide!
February 4, 2026 at 12:58 AM
Jeffery Barron said…
This is such a clear and helpful explanation. Thank you for breaking it down so simply. The abbreviations Drift Hunters can definitely be confusing, especially for altar servers and sacristans, and this guide makes it much easier to remember which oil is used for what.
February 6, 2026 at 12:54 AM
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