<P> Although the sign of the cross dates to ante - Nicene Christianity, it was rejected by some of the Reformers and is absent from some forms of Protestantism, although some other reformed Christian traditions, such as Anglicanism, Lutheranism, Presbyterianism, and Methodism sometimes use it . However, it has often been rejected by some Non-Conformist Protestants as being a high church practice, despite Martin Luther's positive personal view . The prescribed use of the sign in Book of Common Prayer and the defence of the sign of the cross were established in Anglican canon law in 1604 . </P> <P> Some Christians make the sign of the cross in response to perceived blasphemy . Others sign themselves to seek God's blessing before or during an event with uncertain outcome . In Hispanic countries, people often sign themselves in public, such as athletes who cross themselves before entering the field or while concentrating for competition . </P> <P> The sign of the cross is a prayer, a blessing, and a sacramental . As a sacramental, it prepares an individual to receive grace and disposes one to cooperate with it . The Christian begins his day, his prayers, and his activities with the Sign of the Cross: "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit . Amen ." In this way a person dedicates the day to God and calls on him for strength in temptations and difficulties . John Vianney said a genuinely made Sign of the Cross "makes all hell tremble ." </P> <P> Also, a longer version is commonly said while making the sign of the cross in the forehead, the mouth and the chest: "By the sign of the cross deliver us from our enemies, you who are our God . In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit . Amen ." After the "you who are our God" part is recited, the ritual then proceeds with the normal Catholic sign of the cross as explained above . </P>

What does the sign of the cross mean in catholicism
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