ST. JUDE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY   PAGE SEVEN             APRIL 14, 2002 

The word "Ambry" is derived from the Latin "armarium" (cupboard or chest).  It signifies the place where the vessels containing the Sacred Oils used in celebrating the Sacraments are kept.  These Sacred Oils are blessed by the Bishop at the Mass of Chrism celebrated during Holy Week and then brought to each parish church on Holy Thursday for the various rites of anointing.  The three Sacred Oils signify the universal charisms of he Church for initiating (Oil of Catechumens), healing (Oil of the Sick), and consecrating (Sacred Chrism).

As early as the sixth century, Ambries were used to hold the Consecrated Hosts as well as the Sacred Oils, and were often located in the base of the altar.  By the thirteenth century, separate locked Ambries were used for the Eucharist only, and became known as "Tabernacles".  This was an accepted practice by the sixteenth century, and was confirmed as general practice by the Council of Trent.  In the meantime, smaller amounts of Sacred Oil were stored in the sacristy, or in a simple wall niche or a niche in the altar, and they were known as the "Ambry."

As with all other vessels used in the Liturgy today, the vessels for the Sacred Oils should be of a quality and design that speak of the importance of the ritual actions.  The vessels should hold an ample supply of the Sacred Oils, thus symbolizing the generosity of God's gifts.  The gestures of anointing can then be performed with similar generosity of touch.  The display of the beautiful vessels reminds the community of the reverence it gives to its members as they are welcomed in Baptism, confirmed in the Spirit, and anointed in their illness.  To be anointed is to participate in an ancient biblical and ecclesial rite of blessing, and to enter into the mission of Jesus Christ, the anointed one of God.

[ The word "Messiah" is a Hebrew word, which means "Anointed".  The Hebrew word "Messiah" is translated into Greek as "Christ", and still means "Anointed".  "Anointed" means specially chosen for a task.  Thus, we read in the Sacred Scriptures that persons called to special tasks by God were anointed:  Aaron as High Priest, Saul and David and Solomon as King, etc.  By our anointing in Baptism and Confirmation, we too are called to special tasks as disciples of Christ, the "Anointed One." ]