Orthodox traditions, interrupted during the years of Soviet power, are gradually being revived in Russia. Parents not only baptize the children, introducing them to the faith, but also regularly attend temples to perform the proper ceremonies. But such an obligatory action as imposing a sign of the cross on oneself, many perform incorrectly, since there was simply no one to show how this is done correctly.
Instruction manual
1
The sign of the Cross is not just a hand gesture, it is part of a church rite. It symbolizes the sign of the cross on which Jesus was crucified. Simultaneously with the utterance of the Name of God, this sign is called to attract the Divine Grace of the Holy Spirit. If you do not overshadow yourself with the sign of the Cross consciously and correctly, then there will be no sense in such a rite.
2
Fold the fingers of your right hand: put the large, index and middle fingers together in a pinch, they should be on the same level, bend the ring and little fingers, they should lightly touch the palm pads. It is a symbol of the trinity of the Divine Essence as God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Three fingers folded together symbolize this Holy Trinity, and two fingers pressed to the palm serve as a symbol of the Divine and human essence of Jesus, the Son of God, which was embodied in man.
3
When baptized, one should not rush. The hand should move smoothly, clearly fixing on the center of the forehead, stomach (just above the navel) and shoulders. Putting your fingers on your forehead, you sanctify your mind, on your stomach - inner feelings. Then the Orthodox cross their shoulders from right to left, and Catholics - from left to right, illuminating bodily forces.
4
If you are not baptized during prayer, you still need to mentally pronounce to yourself the words: "In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, amen." This expresses the meaning of faith, confirms it and your desire to devote your life and thoughts to the glory of God. "Amen" is an old form, meaning: truly, it is, it will be so.
5
The bow should be done only after the hand is lowered. By observing this religious ritual correctly, you take its significance to a new level and make the sign of the Cross a great weapon that will protect you and those whom you overshadow with the grace of the Lord.
6
It is necessary to be baptized before the prayer, during and after it. It is necessary to overshadow yourself with the sign of the Cross when entering and leaving the temple, applying to the cross or to the holy icon. It will not hurt to cross yourself in case of danger, in grief or joy.
