It is customary to cross oneself when invoking the Trinity, before and after prayer, and at other times, which you can learn by observing other people in your church. You can also cross yourself when you need to pray but you are at a loss for words.
If you are a Protestant, don’t get all huffy and say, “We don’t cross ourselves.” You may be surprised. I have seen black Baptists crossing themselves.
Preparation
Use your right hand, even if you are left-handed. Hold your thumb and first two fingers together, and fold the other two fingers down against the base of your thumb.
Crossing Yourself Western Style
This style is used by Anglicans, Lutherans, and Roman Catholics:
- Touch your forehead
- Touch the base of your sternum
- Touch the left side of your chest
- Touch the right side of your chest
- As you cross yourself, say, whisper, or think: “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Crossing Yourself Eastern Style
This style is used by Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Christians:
- Touch your forehead
- Touch your navel
- Touch your right shoulder
- Touch your left shoulder
- As you cross yourself, say, whisper, or think: “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
The Symbolism
- The movement traces a cross over your body. By crossing yourself, you are taking up your cross and following Jesus.
- The three fingers represent the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; the two fingers folded down represent the human and divine natures of Jesus Christ.
- In the western style, the movement from the left to the right represents Jesus’ descent into hades (the left side) and His ascension into Heaven (the right side).
