Who Can Present the Holy Oils at the Chrism Mass? Setting the Record Straight

Recently, I shared a short video clip from the 2025 Uromi Diocesan Chrism Mass, where a Medical Doctor was seen presenting the Oil of the Sick. This simple yet meaningful gesture sparked quite a bit of conversation online.

Some commenters expressed concern, insisting that “women shouldn’t present any oils at Chrism Mass.” Some others said she didn’t tie her hair…. Understandable as their concerns may be, it also highlights the need for proper catechesis on what the Church actually teaches regarding this beautiful tradition.

So, let’s take a moment to look at the issue with calm minds and open hearts.

Understanding the Chrism Mass

The Chrism Mass is one of the most important liturgical celebrations in the life of a diocese. It is here that the Bishop blesses the Oil of the Sick and the Oil of Catechumens, and consecrates the Sacred Chrism. These oils are then used in the sacraments throughout the year: anointing the sick, preparing catechumens for baptism, and consecrating people and objects to God.

The Mass also emphasizes the unity of the priests with their bishop and the entire diocesan Church.

Who Presents the Oils? Is There a Strict Rule?

Here’s the truth: the General Instruction of the Roman Missal and the Roman Pontifical do not specify exactly who must present the oils during the Chrism Mass.

Traditionally, deacons often carry the vessels of oil during the procession. But this is a matter of local custom, not an absolute law. In fact, the rubrics simply call for the oils to be presented to the bishop at the appropriate time. There is no prohibition against lay persons (men or women) being invited to take part in this symbolic presentation.

Why Involve Medical Doctors and Catechists?

In many dioceses, including ours, the bishop may choose to involve certain members of the faithful in this rite, as a way of highlighting the connection between the oils and specific ministries:

• Medical doctors presenting the Oil of the Sick is deeply meaningful. After all, they are often the hands through which God’s healing mercy reaches the sick, alongside the Church’s sacramental ministry.
• Catechists presenting the Oil of Catechumens beautifully symbolizes their role in preparing people for initiation into the faith.
• Deacons, by their very ministry of service, fittingly present the Sacred Chrism, used for baptisms, confirmations, ordinations, and consecrations.

This is not a liturgical abuse. Rather, it is a pastoral adaptation within the bishop’s legitimate authority, provided the essential rites remain intact, and they do.

The Bishop’s Authority and the Spirit of the Liturgy

The Church gives bishops a certain pastoral freedom to make adaptations that help the faithful participate more deeply in the liturgy, as long as they remain faithful to the Church’s universal norms. Pope Francis himself encourages a “healthy decentralization” in matters of pastoral practice that respect both tradition and local realities.

Thus, involving lay persons in presenting the oils is well within the scope of a bishop’s pastoral discretion. It’s a way of making the connection between liturgy and life more visible.

A Gentle Invitation to Charity

To those who were scandalized by seeing a woman, especially a medical doctor, presenting the Oil of the Sick, I ask you to consider the intention and the meaning behind the gesture. The Chrism Mass is not about clericalism or rigid formalism. It’s about the Church, the whole People of God, coming together to celebrate the mystery of salvation.

Liturgical rubrics are there to safeguard the dignity and integrity of our worship, not to exclude the faithful from meaningful participation. In truth, there is no liturgical law that forbids a woman from presenting the holy oils at the Chrism Mass.

Focus on What Truly Matters
Instead of focusing on who carried the vessel, let us focus on what the oils represent; the healing, sanctifying, and consecrating power of Christ at work in His Church. Let’s correct misunderstandings, yes, but always with love, patience, and respect for one another.

In the end, it is not so much about who presents the oils, but what the Church does with them; bringing Christ’s healing, teaching, and sanctifying grace to the world.

“Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14