Q: I believe I remember you writing at some point that there is a request in to the Vatican about using an implement to administer the oil of chrism for confirmation so that the thumb does not need to be used. Has there been any word on this yet? Thank you!
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A: Yes, we have an answer, though it went in a private correspondence from the Vatican to bishops. At least one diocese has published it online here: https://www.cathdal.org/USCCB-Confirmation-Letter-20200602.pdf. The use of an instrument does not affect the validity of the sacrament.
The minister may continue to use his thumb, but it would be prudent for him to sanitize his thumb between each administration during the pandemic.