Chrismatory

The chrismatory (chrismatolochio) is the sealed vessel in which the Holy Chrism (myron) is kept in the sanctuary. In Orthodox practice, the chrism is consecrated by the patriarch or head bishop and distributed to all churches in the jurisdiction — the sealed chrismatory is itself a sign of unity with the bishop. The chrism is anointed from this vessel in the sacrament of Chrismation, and also used in the blessing of altars, holy water, and certain other consecrations.