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Always begin with the "Sign of the Cross"?

Question

Question

Does ever liturgy, especially those not a Mass, begin with the "Sign of the Cross?"

--Curious in Crestwood

Answer

Answer

No. There are even "Masses" which do not begin with the "Sign of the Cross." Also consider the Good Friday or the Easter Vigil which begin "in the middle" of the Triduum. Here is a list of those rituals that do NOT with the sign of the cross:

  • Some funeral celebrations:
    Vigil for the Deceased, Reception of the Body, Funeral Mass, Rite of Committal
  • Some celebrations of initiation:
    Rite of Acceptance
    Reception of Children in the Rite of Baptism
    Rite of Confirmation outside Mass
  • Rite of Marriage outside Mass
  • Both Rites of Reconciliation of several penitents
    (individual confession and absolution/general confession and
    absolution)
  • Distribution of Holy Communion outside Mass, Rite of Exposition and
    Benediction (see Order for Solemn Exposition of the Holy Eucharist)
  • Rites of the Pastoral Care of the Sick: visiting, Communion, Anointing of the Sick

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