Why I Started Praying the Sign of the Cross in Latin
Just a few weeks ago I was praying with my Daily Missal and came across the section of recommended daily prayers. Of course, the very first one was the Sign of the Cross. However, the section included not only the English version of the prayer but also the Latin.
And as I never learned growing up how to pray any of the basic prayers in Latin, I decided to give it a shot and even try memorizing it.
Now, ever since that day, I find myself making the Sign of the Cross and praying its words in Latin almost every time.
There’s something so beautiful and simple, yet profoundly sacred about saying the words in Latin rather than in English.
Praying the Sign of the Cross in Latin
While making the Sign of the Cross with your hand, the following Latin words are to be said:
“In nómine Patris, et Fílii, et Spíritus Sancti. Amen.”
In case you have absolutely no familiarity with Latin and want a word-by-word translation from the Latin to English:
“In” translates to “In“
“nómine” translates to “name“
“Patris” translates to “of the Father“
“et” translates to “and“
“Fílii” translates to “of the Son“
“et” translates to “and“
“Spíritus” translates to “of the Spirit“
“Sancti” translates to “Holy“
“Amen” translates to “Amen“
How to Make the Sign of the Cross in Latin
Step #1
With your right hand, touch your forehead and pray, “In nómine Patris”
Step #2
Touch the center of your chest and pray “et Fílii”
Step #3
Touch your left shoulder and pray “et Spíritus”
Step #4
Touch your right shoulder and pray, “Sancti. Amen.”
Why Use Latin When Praying the Sign of the Cross?
Catholics are by no means required to pray the Sign of the Cross in Latin. In fact, if one is more comfortable saying the words in their native tongue that is what they ought to do. However, there are some benefits to praying the Sign of the Cross in Latin over praying it in one’s native tongue:
1) It’s Ancient Tradition
2) It’s Universal
3) It’s Sacred
How do you pray the Sign of the Cross?
Share in the comments!
