From: Father Mateo 28th March 1995
To: cinaskf@catinfo.cts.com
Subject: Sign of the Cross
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| Father Mateo,
|
| For what reason do those in the Eastern rite of the Church make the
| sign of the cross in the reverse fashion from those of us in the Roman
| rite?
|
| Thank you,
|
| Richard Bogan
Dear Richard,
In both Eastern and Latin rites, the priest gives blessings by
moving his hand (or a cross/crucifix) vertically from top to
bottom, then horizontally from left to right.
In Latin rites, custom prevails of the worshippers' making the
Sign of the Cross just as the priest does, i.e., should to right
shoulder. But in Eastern rites, the custom is for the
worshippers to FOLLOW the priest's hand motions, ie.e., as he
moves his hand horizontally from left to right, they move their
hands from their RIGHT shoulders to their LEFT. Custom determines
each usage.
Sincerely in Christ,
Father Mateo
- Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit -
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