Signing Our Senses

To show our belief in the Trinity by praying the Sign of the Cross

The children will demonstrate an understanding of how the Sign of the Cross, which expresses the Trinity, is used in Baptism.

• Introduce this activity by explaining that one way we show our belief in the Trinity is by praying the Sign of the Cross. The Sign of the Cross reminds us of our Baptism, when our foreheads and all our senses were marked by the cross to show that we belong to Christ.
• Tell the children to break into pairs. Instruct them that as you read, one of them should make a large Sign of the Cross in the air over the location of each of the senses on the other child.
• Say: Receive the Sign of the Cross on your forehead. It is Christ himself who now strengthens you with this sign of his love. Learn to know and follow him. Receive the Sign of the Cross on your ears, that you may hear the voice of the Lord. Receive the Sign of the Cross on your eyes, that you may see the glory of God. Receive the Sign of the Cross on your lips, that you may respond to the word of God.
• Have the children switch roles and read the prayer again.
• After everyone has experienced the signing, invite the children to share what they experienced as their senses were marked with the Trinity.
• Conclude by restating that what they have experienced is similar to what happened at their Baptism and that the Sign of the Cross is a powerful way we mark ourselves with the Trinity.

Body Smart

Create a prayerful environment.