Full Question
The RCIA director at our parish said it was liturgically improper to bless yourself with the sign of the cross after receiving Communion. Can you point me to a Church document defining the appropriateness of this gesture?
Answer
The burden of proof lies with your RCIA director. Ask him or her to show you a Church document that states that the sign of the cross is improper after receiving the Eucharist. Such a document does not exist. The sign of the cross is always appropriate.
Cradle Catholic, made my 1st communion in the 70’s and that is what we were taught, Receive the blessed sacrament, step aside, bless yourself. (I was also taught to say an Act of Contrition prior to receiving)
Cradle Catholic, made my 1st communion in the 70’s and that is what we were taught, Receive the blessed sacrament, step aside, bless yourself. (I was also taught to say an Act of Contrition prior to receiving)
My pastor says it’s not appropriate since Eucharist is about receiving Jesus and the sign of the cross is about the trinity. He said however he’d never stop someone. I’ve looked at several Catholic sites that say that as well.