The Sign of the Cross

The two main parts of the Mass are the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist.  Before we begin the Liturgy of the Word, we have the Introductory Rites.  They begin with the procession and music that we have already reflected on.  As part of the procession, the clergy kiss the altar as a sign of love and devotion in their service to God and the people.

Next, the priest begins speaking with the Sign of the Cross.  We make the Sign of the Cross every time we begin and end our prayers.  Who could even begin to count how many times a person makes the Sign of the Cross in a lifetime?  Don’t let it become routine without any thought!  The Cross is the place where Jesus gave his life so that our sins might be forgiven.  We call upon the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as one God who loves us with an unending love.

(The entire series of these articles to date is available on my website at http://www.renewaloffaith.org/bulletinmass).