The cross is, as we can see, existentially connected to man, much more to the Christian. For this reason, we make the sign of the cross either in the temple at many places of worship or in private. Without hesitation, we have to make the point of the cross. It is also a way of confessing our faith.
The special circumstances that mankind has been through lately invite us all, whether in the temple or in our homes, to intensify our prayer before the Lord’s cross so that we can taste the joy of the Resurrection in our temples
Make the sign of the cross regularly to acknowledge the presence of our Lord.
This signifies Christ’s suffering, Crucifixion and Resurrection for our salvation.
This reminds us that we are called to follow in the steps of Christ.
This helps us bear our sorrows and deprivations in His name
This keeps the image of the cross in front of us.
This helps gain strength against our battle with the devil.
This keeps in mind the glory of Christ in the Second Coming which is preceded by the sign of the Cross in the sky.
We make the sign on our bodies by putting our thumb and first two fingers together symbolizing the Holy Trinity. We tuck the last tow in the palm of our hand symbolizing the to natures of Christ: Fully human and fully divine. Then we start with our forehead moving our hand down to the waist then to the right shoulder and then to the left. some will close the prayer by bringing the hand to the heart. We can say “Glory be to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit” as we make the sign on our Body or some other short prayer.
This is a very simple way to make a prayer anytime during the day. Whenever you are feeling distraught stop and make the sign of the cross. Make it before you have your meal. Make it in Church whenever there is a reference to the Holy Trinity, Christ, Theotokos or a saint or loved one. Make it any time and it will bring you back to remembrance of God so the Holy Spirit can help you.
Source: Orthodox Metropolis of Zambia
