Why Anglicans Do Not Cross Themselves and What It Signifies

For centuries, Christians across denominations have utilized the sign of the cross as a way of expressing piety and reverence. However, within the Anglican tradition, this practice has not been as prevalent as in other Christian denominations. This article will explore the reasons why Anglicans do not typically cross themselves and the rich symbolic meanings behind this practice.

The Significance of the Sign of the Cross

For many Christians, the sign of the cross carries profound theological and spiritual significance. It is a form of prayer made with the body that can express allegiance to Christ, submission to His will, and prayers for salvation. This physical gesture allows one to communicate directly with God in a multi-faceted way, combining various prayers into a single, powerful action. Consider, for instance, the action of embracing someone. When you hug another person, you convey love, comfort, warmth, and many other emotions simultaneously. Similarly, the sign of the cross can encapsulate numerous prayers and expressions of faith.

Anglican Practices and Clergy Opinions

According to the author, they have been an Anglican (Episcopalian) for decades and have never witnessed or even heard of someone crossing themselves. This observation stems from the distinct theological and historical perspectives that shape Anglican practices. Unlike Catholic and Orthodox traditions, which require the sign of the cross for certain prayers and rituals, Anglicanism tends to emphasize the significance of personal piety and the Bible. Thus, while many Anglicans, especially those in High Anglican churches, may keep the practice, it is not a universal requirement.

Some Anglicans, similar to Roman Catholics, do incorporate the sign of the cross into their personal piety. This gesture often serves as a way of demonstrating respect in certain situations and a way of centering oneself for prayer in others. In all cases, the sign of the cross is a kinetic form of prayer that allows for the simultaneous expression of multiple prayers and sentiments. However, it is important to note that this practice remains less common in Anglicanism compared to other Christian traditions.

Why More Christians Do Not Cross Themselves

One might wonder why more Christians across various denominations do not engage in the sign of the cross. The answer can be found in the diverse theological, historical, and cultural influences within each tradition. Each denomination has its unique approach to expressing faith and spirituality, and the sign of the cross serves as just one method among many. Additionally, the practice of crossing oneself is often tied to specific liturgical contexts, which some find less relevant or necessary in their personal spiritual practices.

Conclusion

While the sign of the cross carries deep theological and spiritual significance, its significance is not universal across all Christian denominations, including Anglicanism. Although some Anglicans do incorporate this practice into their personal piety, it remains less prevalent. The rich symbolism and multi-faceted nature of the sign of the cross make it a powerful tool for spiritual expression, but its widespread adoption varies based on theological, historical, and cultural contexts within each tradition.

Source: Anglican blogger, providing personal insights into the practice within the Anglican tradition.