Making the Sign of the Cross as a Family Prayer

The sign of the cross is an ancient Christian gesture; it belongs to all of us. Some Christians use it often, and others rarely or never. United Methodists are free to use it as a reminder of baptism, Christ's victory, and our belonging to Jesus.

The gesture does not earn God's favor or work like magic. It gives the body a simple way to remember the faith the mouth confesses.

Try the Gesture

1. Begin with an open hand or a relaxed grouping of fingers. Christian traditions use different finger positions, and none is required for this family practice.

2. Touch the forehead while saying, 'In the name of the Father.'

3. Move the hand to the chest while saying, 'and of the Son.'

4. Move across the shoulders while saying, 'and of the Holy Spirit.' Traditions differ about direction; follow your church's custom if it has one.

5. End with 'Amen,' an open hand, or a moment of stillness.

When Might Families Use It?

At the beginning and end of prayer.

After touching baptismal water and remembering baptism.

At bedtime as a reminder of belonging to Christ.

When fear or anxiety makes spoken prayer difficult.

During worship when the gesture is meaningful and freely chosen.

Keep It Optional

Demonstrate without requiring imitation. A child may trace a small cross on a palm, draw one in the air, hold a cross, or simply watch. Respect Christians whose traditions do not use the gesture.

Pray Together

Triune God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - mark our lives with the love of Jesus. Help us remember our baptism and live as people who belong to you. Amen.

Make It a Rhythm

Use the gesture at one consistent moment for several weeks. Let meaning grow through gentle repetition rather than lengthy explanation.