24/09/2024
We Catholics make the Sign of the Cross
But do you know why??
The Catechism of the Catholic Church recommends the practice of sanctifying our daily life with sacramentals, chief of which is the Sign of the Cross. Many Catholics don’t know that the Sign of the Cross is a sacramental!.
When we make the Sign of the Cross before we begin an activity, we elevate whatever it is we are doing. It becomes an opportunity for drawing nearer to God.
When you sign yourself, think of all the mysteries contained in the cross. It is not enough to form it with the finger. You must first make it with faith and good will. . . . When you mark your breast, your eyes, and all your members with the sign of the cross, offer yourself as a victim pleasing to God.
St. John Chrysostom
This simple act of making the sign of the cross reminds us that:
1. We have been bought and purchased by the finished work of Christ on the cross (“sign of the cross”).
2. We have been marked with the name of the Triune God in our baptisms (all Christians baptisms are in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit).
3. We continue to look and trust in Christ at all times and situations.
4. We boldly and unashamedly declare to the world that we are Christ-followers.
When is it appropriate to make the sign of the cross?
Anytime throughout the day, you feel led to or whenever you desire to be reminded of God’s presence with you and your reliance upon Him. You may do it before an especially important meeting, when you are being tempted by sin, as you drive, when you pray, before and/or after meals, and when you wake up and when you go to bed.
During the worship service, it is especially appropriate to cross oneself at
(1) the beginning of the service during the Invocation (in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit),
(2) after the Declaration of Grace;
(3) during the Creed when we declare our belief in the resurrection (“Resurrection of the body”),
(4) After receiving the Holy Eucharist,
(5) Upon receiving the closing benediction when the pastor makes the sign of the cross upon the congregation.
May the Lord’s grace and peace be upon us all every day. Amen
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
