This one of the most familiar Catholic gestures, expressing the basic truths of our faith - the Trinity and our redemption of Jesus on the cross.  As far back as the third century, tracing the sign of the cross on persons or things was used as a way for Christians to sanctify daily life.  It was also used as a means of recognition between Christians during times of persecution.  

The sign of the cross is made by touching the forehead, chest, left shoulder, and right shoulder with the fingers of the open right hand, while publically or privately saying the words, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”  Catholics use this gesture to begin and end prayer.

A priest blesses people or objects by tracing the sign of the cross in the air.  

During Baptism, Confirmation and Anointing of the Sick, the sign of the cross is traced on the forehead of the one receiving the Sacrament, as well as on the hands of a man being ordained to the priesthood.

When entering a church, people dip their right hand into the holy (blessed) water at the entrance and make the sign of the cross.  This practice can become routine and it’s good to be reminded of its meaning.  In ancient times this was a gesture of purification before prayer.  For us it is a reminder of the waters of our baptism and a recommitting to our baptismal promises.