In the Orthodox Church, Baptism and Chrismation are not separate events but rather two inseparable parts of a single initiation sacrament. While often discussed separately for clarity, they are intrinsically linked, forming a unified experience of spiritual rebirth. This article will clarify the distinctions and connections between these two vital sacraments.
What is Baptism in the Orthodox Church?
Baptism, or Báptisma (βάπτισμα) in Greek, signifies a symbolic death and resurrection with Christ. It's a complete immersion in water, signifying the washing away of original sin and the entry into the Christian life. The act itself is a powerful declaration of faith and a public witness to one's commitment to Christ. The water used is not merely water; it is understood to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit, becoming a vehicle of divine grace. The formula used during Orthodox Baptism invokes the Holy Trinity: "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
What is Chrismation in the Orthodox Church?
Chrismation, also known as Confirmation or Myroponos (μύρον), immediately follows Baptism. During this sacrament, the newly baptized person is anointed with myron (holy chrism), a consecrated perfumed oil blessed by a bishop. This anointing seals the individual with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, granting them the fullness of grace and incorporating them completely into the body of Christ, the Church. Unlike some Protestant traditions where confirmation is a separate event, Chrismation in Orthodoxy is an integral part of the baptismal process.
Is Chrismation the Same as Confirmation?
While often compared to Confirmation in other Christian denominations, Chrismation is not simply a confirmation of baptismal vows. It is a distinct sacrament with its own profound theological significance. Confirmation in many Western churches focuses more on reaffirming faith and receiving spiritual maturity. In contrast, Chrismation in the Orthodox Church is the actual bestowal of the Holy Spirit, completing the initiation into the Christian faith. It confers spiritual gifts and empowers the individual to live a life guided by the Spirit.
What is the difference between the two sacraments?
Baptism cleanses from original sin, while Chrismation bestows the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Baptism initiates into the Church; Chrismation fully incorporates the individual into the life of the Church and empowers them with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Though separate actions, they form one unified sacrament of initiation.
Is Chrismation necessary after Baptism?
In the Orthodox Church, Chrismation is not an optional addition to Baptism; it is an indispensable part of it. One cannot be considered fully initiated into the Church without having received both Baptism and Chrismation. They are inseparable aspects of a single sacramental act.
What happens during the Chrismation ceremony?
The priest or bishop anoints the newly baptized person on the forehead, eyes, nostrils, mouth, ears, chest, hands, and feet, invoking the Holy Spirit and the gifts associated with each anointing. This act seals the individual with the grace of the Holy Spirit and imprints them with the seal of Christ.
Can a person be chrismated without being baptized?
No. Chrismation is only administered after Baptism. It is understood as the completion of the baptismal process, not a separate sacrament that can stand alone.
Conclusion
Baptism and Chrismation are two inseparable components of the single initiation sacrament in the Orthodox Church. While distinct in their actions, they work together to achieve spiritual rebirth and full incorporation into the life of Christ and His Church. Understanding this unity is crucial to grasping the richness and depth of Orthodox theology and sacramental practice. This inseparable connection highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit's role in the life of the Christian and the Church's communal life.
