<P> Then we should also marvel how demons and various diseases are dispelled by the sign of the precious and life - giving Cross, which all can make without cost or effort . Who can number the panegyrics composed in its honor? The holy fathers have handed down to us the inner significance of this sign, so that we can refute heretics and unbelievers . The two fingers and single hand with which it is made represent the Lord Jesus Christ crucified, and He is thereby acknowledged to exist in two natures and one hypostasis or person . </P> <P> The use of the right hand betokens His infinite power and the fact that He sits at the right hand of the Father . That the sign begins with a downward movement from above signifies His descent to us from heaven . Again, the movement of the hand from the right side to the left drives away our enemies and declares that by His invincible power the Lord overcame the devil, who is on the left side, dark and lacking strength . </P> <P> Athanasius of Alexandria (269--373 A.D.) </P> <P> By the signing of the holy and life - giving cross, devils and various scourges are driven away . For it is without price and without cost and praises him who can say it . The holy fathers have, by their words, transmitted to us, and even to the unbelieving heretics, how the two raised fingers and the single hand reveal Christ our God in His dual nature but single substance . The right hand proclaims His immeasurable strength, His sitting on the right hand of the Father, and His coming down unto us from Heaven . Again, by the movement of the hands to our right the enemies of God will be driven out, as the Lord triumphs over the Devil with His inconquerable power, rendering him dismal and weak . </P>

What is the purpose of the sign of the cross