Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and aromatic essences following the pattern of the preparation of anointing oil described in [[Exodus]] 30:22-33. Chrism is prepared when needed during [[Holy Week]]. The preparation rite begins on [[Holy Week|Holy Monday]] and ends with the Divine Liturgy on [[Holy Week|Holy Thursday]] when the new chrism is carried in during the [[Great Entrance]] and placed upon the altar table. The chrism is prepared by the ruling [[bishop]] of each [[autocephaly|autocephalous]] church, assisted by members of the [[Holy Synod]]. After its preparation the chrism is distributed to the bishops, who in turn pass it to the [[parish]]es where it is needed.

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