How to Use an Oil Stock for Anointing at Home
By The Faith Gift Shop | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the proper way to use a chrismarium oil stock at home for anointing with holy oils, including storage, handling, and practical tips.
Quick Answer
To use an oil stock for anointing at home, choose the right container, fill it with blessed oil, and apply the oil with a cotton ball or your thumb while praying. Keep the stock clean and store it properly to preserve the oil.
Why Use an Oil Stock?
An oil stock, also called a chrismarium or chrismatory, is a small container designed to hold holy oils. It keeps the oil accessible and protected, making it convenient for home anointing during prayer or family blessings.
Using a dedicated oil stock helps prevent spills and contamination, and it allows you to keep different oils separate if you use more than one type.
Choosing the Right Oil Stock
Oil stocks come in different sizes and configurations. A single oil stock is compact and ideal for one type of oil, while a triple oil stock holds three separate oils in individual cups, each engraved with a letter to identify the contents.
Consider how many oils you need to store and how often you'll use them. If you only use one oil, a single stock is simpler; if you use multiple oils, a triple stock keeps them organized and easy to identify.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Oil Stock
- Choose Your Oil Stock: Select a single or triple oil stock based on how many oils you need to store. If you use multiple oils, a triple stock helps keep them organized and clearly labeled. Check the engravings on the cups to ensure you know which oil goes where.
- Fill the Oil Stock: Unscrew the cup(s) and carefully pour the blessed oil into the container, leaving a little space at the top to avoid spills. Replace the cup securely after filling. Avoid overfilling; a small amount of oil is sufficient for anointing.
- Prepare for Anointing: Wash your hands and have a cotton ball or your thumb ready. You may also want to have a small cloth or tissue to catch any excess oil. Ensure the area is clean and have everything you need within reach.
- Apply the Oil: Dip your thumb or a cotton ball into the oil and apply it to the person's forehead or another appropriate part of the body, making the sign of the cross while praying. Use gentle pressure and a small amount of oil; you can always add more if needed.
- Clean and Store the Oil Stock: After use, wipe the rim of the container with a clean cloth to prevent oil from accumulating. Screw the cup(s) back on tightly and store the oil stock in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Regular cleaning prevents contamination and keeps the oil fresh for future use.
Oil Stock Options
- Triple Oil Stock: The Triple Oil Stock is a 3.3" x 1.0" cylindrical container with three small cups that unscrew, each engraved with a letter indicating which oil it holds. This design lets you store three different holy oils in one compact container, making it easy to identify and access each oil during anointing.
Triple Oil Stock - Single Oil Stock: The Single Oil Stock is a compact 1.3" x 1.0" container designed to hold one type of holy oil. Its small size makes it easy to carry or store, and it's perfect for those who only need one oil for their home anointing practices.
Single Oil Stock
