Liturgy & Liturgical Law Forum: Sign of the cross before gospel acclamation
Sign of the cross before gospel acclamation QUESTION from Aaron Lim July 19, 2001
I wish to ask what is the significance of the three small sign of the crosses mean before the gospel acclamation (After the 1st and the 2nd reading during Mass)? What is it's significance and why particularly before gospel acclamation?
ANSWER by Mr. Jacob Slavek on July 21, 2001
Dear Mr. Lim,
Although not officially stated, I believe the purpose of these gestures is to prepare to hear the Gospel. There is no official text given, but traditionally we pray that the Lord be on my mind, on my lips, and in my heart The significance would be then that we pray that the Gospel we are about to hear will remain in us.
The actual legislation is actual very simple: the one who proclaims the gospel crosses himself.
95. At the lectern the priest opens the book and says: The Lord be with you. Then he says: A reading from . . ., making the sign of the cross with his thumb on the book and on his forehead, mouth, and breast. Mr. Slavek
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