Do High Anglicans Cross Themselves

The practice of making the sign of the cross is a distinctive and meaningful gesture within many Christian traditions. Among Anglican communities, especially those with high church or Anglo-Catholic leanings, this act often carries deep spiritual significance. However, customs and practices regarding crossing oneself can vary widely across different Anglican churches and individual believers. In this article, we explore whether high Anglicans typically make the sign of the cross, the historical and theological reasons behind it, and how this practice fits within the broader Anglican tradition.

Do High Anglicans Cross Themselves

In the Anglican tradition, particularly among high church or Anglo-Catholic groups, making the sign of the cross is a common and cherished practice. These groups tend to emphasize continuity with Catholic liturgical and devotional practices, including the use of gestures such as crossing oneself. Conversely, more low church or evangelical Anglicans may be less inclined to perform this gesture, often viewing it as optional or even unnecessary. To understand this better, it is important to consider the historical background, theological significance, and contemporary practices surrounding crossing oneself among high Anglicans.

Historical Roots of Crossing Oneself in Anglican Worship

The practice of crossing oneself dates back to the early centuries of Christianity. It is believed to have originated as a way for believers to physically express their faith, invoke protection, and signify their dedication to Christ. As Anglicanism emerged in the 16th century, it inherited many liturgical practices from Catholicism, including crossing oneself.

During the early years of the Anglican Reformation, there was some debate over liturgical gestures, but many high church and Anglo-Catholic groups retained the practice. In the Book of Common Prayer, which guides Anglican worship, there are references to making the sign of the cross during baptism, the Eucharist, and other sacramental rites. Over time, these customs persisted especially in liturgies that aimed to preserve the Catholic heritage within Anglicanism.

Examples of historical use:

• In traditional Anglican baptismal rites, candidates are often anointed with holy oil and blessed with the sign of the cross.
• During the Eucharist, priests and sometimes congregants make the sign of the cross over the bread and wine.
• Anglo-Catholic devotional practices, such as the Stations of the Cross or personal prayers, often include crossing oneself as a sign of reverence and devotion.

Theological Significance of Crossing Oneself in High Anglican Practice

For high Anglicans, crossing oneself is not merely a ritual; it is a meaningful act that embodies theological truths. The gesture serves as a physical reminder of the Holy Trinity, reflecting the threefold nature of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is also viewed as a way to invoke divine protection and blessing during worship and personal devotion.

Many high church Anglicans see crossing oneself as a sacramental act, akin to receiving a blessing. It signifies participation in Christ’s sacrifice and acknowledgment of His presence in the sacraments. The act can also serve as a personal declaration of faith, especially during prayer, confession, or when seeking spiritual strength.

Furthermore, crossing oneself aligns with the Anglican understanding of worship as both spiritual and physical—an embodied expression of faith. It bridges the internal act of prayer with outward gestures that symbolize inner devotion.

Key theological points:

• Acts as a reminder of the Holy Trinity.
• Symbolizes participation in Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
• Invokes divine protection and blessing.
• Embodies the Anglican emphasis on sacramental and physical expressions of faith.

Contemporary Practices Among High Anglicans

In modern high Anglican and Anglo-Catholic communities, crossing oneself remains a common practice, especially during liturgical celebrations such as the Eucharist, Confirmation, and Benediction. Many clergy and laity see it as a vital part of their devotional life.

Some specific customs include:

• Making the sign of the cross at the beginning and end of prayer or Mass.
• Crossing oneself when receiving Holy Communion.
• Using the gesture during personal prayer or when invoking the Holy Spirit.
• Incorporating crossing into devotional acts such as the Rosary or Stations of the Cross.

It is important to note that the frequency and manner of crossing oneself can vary among individuals and communities. Some high Anglican churches encourage frequent use of the gesture, while others may view it as optional or reserved for specific occasions.

Variations in practice:

• Some make the sign of the cross with the right hand only, starting from the forehead, then chest, then shoulders.
• Others may include a bow or genuflection along with crossing oneself.
• In some communities, crossing oneself is more common during specific liturgies, while others may do so more sparingly.

Differences Between High and Low Church Practices

While high Anglicans tend to embrace crossing oneself as part of their liturgical tradition, low church or evangelical Anglicans often do not emphasize this gesture. Their focus may be more on Scripture reading, personal prayer, and less on liturgical gestures.

Key differences include:

• High Anglicans: Frequent use of crossing, incense, vestments, and other Catholic liturgical elements.
• Low Church/Evangelical Anglicans: Minimal use of gestures like crossing, emphasizing simplicity in worship.

Despite these differences, both groups respect the diversity within Anglicanism and recognize crossing oneself as a valid devotional practice for those who choose it.

Respecting different traditions:

• Practices are often influenced by personal piety, community customs, and theological emphasis.
• Individuals may adopt or omit crossing depending on their spiritual convictions.

Conclusion: The Significance of Crossing Oneself in High Anglican Worship

In summary, crossing oneself is a well-established practice among high Anglicans and Anglo-Catholics, rooted in historical tradition and rich theological symbolism. It serves as a physical act that embodies core Christian beliefs, such as the Trinity and participation in Christ’s sacrifice. While its usage varies across Anglican communities, for many high church believers, crossing oneself remains a meaningful expression of faith, devotion, and reverence during worship and prayer.

Ultimately, whether or not an individual high Anglican crosses themselves depends on personal conviction, community customs, and liturgical context. Nonetheless, the gesture continues to be a vibrant part of high Anglican spirituality, connecting believers with centuries of Christian tradition and the divine presence in their worship.

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