What does the annointing with chrism symbolize in baptism?
“The Chrism is generally held to be the matter or essential substance for the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation. It is applied by the Bishop in the form of a cross on the forehead of the person confirmed. It is used also in the ceremonies of Baptism, an unction [an anointing] being made with it on the crown of the head immediately after the pouring of the water. Its use is required also in the consecration of a Bishop, and [the ordination of a priest. Baptism makes us sharers in the priesthood of christ. Chrism, which is also used in ordination, brings forward this truth. All those who share in Christ’s priesthood, share with him, each at their own level, Christ’s role in teaching, sanctifying and leading his people.] The use of balsam in the Chrism dates from about the sixth century. Balsam is a resinous substance which is procured from terebinth trees, which grow in Judea and Arabia; and similar substances of even greater excellence are obtained from various plants in t
