What is the meaning of the Sign of the Cross?
The Sign of the Cross is the simplest Christian prayer and a way of beginning and ending our prayers, our day and our tasks. We trace a cross on ourselves and say the words "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
The words recall the name into which we were baptised, so we are renewing our identity as children of God. The cross reminds us that we are saved by the death and resurrection of Christ. Using the hand also shows that prayer involves the whole person, body as well as mind.
The Church teaches that this sign dedicates our day to God's glory and asks for the grace of Christ, who strengthens us in difficulties and temptations. It is not a lucky charm. Its power comes from the God it names, and it is best made slowly and with attention.
Sources
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2157
- Matthew 28:19
Awaiting review by the chaplaincy. Written in our own words; the Church's own texts are the authority.