As Orthodox Christians, we make the sign of the Cross at all times of the day: when we wake up from sleep, when praying, before and after eating, before doing any task, before a journey, before going to sleep - before anything we do!
The Cross is a reminder that God is with us. It is a form of blessing and protection.
How do I make the sign of the Cross?
Using your right hand, put your thumb, index finger and middle finger together. This represents the Trinity:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, one God.
Next, fold your ring finger and pinky finger down to your palm.
These two fingers represent the two natures of Christ - fully human and fully Divine. They are folded down because God, the Son, came down from heaven and dwelt in the womb of the Virgin Mary.
- Put your hand to your forehead and say: In the Name of the Father'
- Now move your hand to your lower chest as you say: "and of the Son'
- Now move your hand to your right shoulder and say: "and of the Holy Spirit'
- As you cross over to your left shoulder, say 'Amen'. Now you can attentively make the sign of the Cross.