Why Do Catholic People Make the Sign of the Cross?

"In all our travels and movements, in...our coming in and going out...whatever employment occupies us, we mark our foreheads with the sign of the cross," said Tertullian, a second century church father. Since his time, Catholics and other Christians have used it to bless, invoke God's name and begin and end their prayers.

Prayerful Gesture

The sign itself is a prayer that references Jesus' mission to convert all nations in the name of the Holy Trinity (Matthew 28:19-20). Per the Catholic Encyclopedia, the most popular form--which originated in the 9th century--involves tracing a large cross from forehead to chest and then shoulder to shoulder. Believers use their right hands while saying, "in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, amen."

Beyond Catholicism

Catholics aren't the only Christians who use the sign of the cross. The Orthodox, Episcopalian, Presbyterian, Methodist and Lutheran Churches also employ this prayer.

Purpose

The sign of the cross is a way for believers to consecrate their lives to Christ. Catholic author Bert Ghezzi identifies six reasons why Catholics and other Christians use this gesture: to declare faith, proclaim discipleship, renew baptism, renounce selfishness, suffer for Christ and defend against evil.

Confession of Faith

The first three reasons relate to public confession of beliefs. At baptism, clergy bless new Christians with the sign of the cross. Afterward, new believers renew that sacrament each time they make the gesture, especially when they use holy water before entering and leaving church. Even during less formal prayer, the sign automatically identifies them as disciples.

Faith in Action

According to Ghezzi, the cross is a universal symbol of self-denial and suffering on behalf of Christ and others (Luke 9:23). Therefore, Catholics and other Christians who make the sign of the cross pledge to do those very things.

Protection

Christians believe life is a spiritual battle between good and evil. Ghezzi explains that the sign of the cross is "both an offensive and defensive tool. The Church Fathers say that if you are angry, full of lust [or] fearful, make the sign of the cross when tempted and it will help dispel the problem."

References

• Catholic Encyclopedia
• Eternal Word Television Network