We make the sign of the cross - first, to put us in mind of the Blessed Trinity; and secondly, to remind us that God the Son died for us on the Cross.
The Sign of the Cross is one of the oldest and most important prayers in Christianity. When Catholics trace the cross upon themselves while saying "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit", they profess two central mysteries of the faith: the Blessed Trinity and the saving death of Jesus Christ. The words recall the three divine Persons, while the gesture of the cross recalls Christ's sacrifice on Calvary. The Sign of the Cross is therefore much more than a habit or greeting. It is a brief profession of faith, a prayer, and a reminder of our baptism. Catholics make the Sign of the Cross at the beginning and end of prayer, before receiving blessings, and during the liturgy. By making this sign with reverence, Christians place themselves under God's protection and renew their commitment to live as disciples of Christ.
The Christian begins his day, his prayers and activities with the Sign of the Cross: "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen." The sign of the cross strengthens us in temptations and difficulties and recalls our baptism into Christ.
Matthew 28:19
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
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