The Sign of the Cross

Very good readEnjoyed this bookand learned alot

Only a simple gesture, only a few words -- but de Sales brings to our attention a power existing in the Sign of the Cross that is unrealized even by many who use it habitually. For by its gestures, we mark ourselves as covered by the redemptive power of the Cross of Christ. And as we intone "In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen," we voice our intent to act under the protection and the authority of the Triune God. Read the book and realize how meaningful this day-to-day practice is - (1) its body language expressive of a person's protective spiritual covering from harm either visible or invisible, and (2) its verbal assertion of intent to carry out one's decisions and actions in accordance with the Will of God. A remarkable little book that will leave the reader encouraged to respect the strength of the Sign of the Cross and to use it often as a prayer in itself, a testimony of one's solidarity with our Redeemer and with the Godhead.

This little book helps Catholics and especially non-Catholic Christians understand the authentic meaning and origin of what most people assume to be a “Catholic thing” only. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. It’s a fairly quick read but addresses all the origins of this gesture of making the sign of the cross.

As a Roman Catholic I learned to make the Sign of the Cross quite young. I understood the meaning over time but this book clearly defined the traditions and history behind it. It was a book club selection and while short it is packed with symbolism and its meaning. I would advise anyone to read the back cover and the short bio on St. Francis de Sales first. If I had done this, the forward would have made much more sense as to St. Francis' motivation. I would recommend the book for both Catholics and non Catholics as a point of discussion concerning the split with the reformers during the reformation.

St. Francis de Sales writes a compelling treatise on The Sign of the Cross. I always knew that the earliest Christians made the Sign of the Cross and this book lays out beautifully when and why and by whom. The book should be read by all Christians who are seeking truth. Protestants dropped it because it was Catholic, and it was, because there is only one Church, but they lost a powerful way to allow the Lord to work in and for them. Everything by St. Francis is a gem, this book is no exception.

An incredible book about a sacred sign that has been used for centuries by devout Christians. Many should read this book and become further enveloped and fascinated by each informative page. It contains an intriguing and passionate argument made by St. Francis de Sales for the sake of this sacred motion. God Bless us all and keep us and may our hands make the Sign of the Cross for all the ages to come.

Great edification. After reading I gained the courage to sign the cross before meals in public, even when dining with protestant friends who would think it rather impudent of me to do so. ST. Francis de Sales is incredible; I highly recommend this work, and any of his other works.His words are life-giving.Thank you!-Sophia

This is a surprising and much needed thesis on the sign of the cross with numerous references to prove the worth of this prayer. As a convert to the Catholic Church I have often wondered about the origins of this prayer. This book more than answered all my questions. I will definitely read more works from St. Francis de Sales--what a brilliant mind!

This is a brilliant book, doing the sign of the cross is so important and beautiful to see. People need this understanding as we live in a very bad secular world and the devil is very active!!

great books very informative

I am finding out a lot I did not know

Even when you think you understand the meaning to all you have ever experienced in Church or school or just personal reading this is a wonderful little book just to have.

Package arrived in good condition. The content is good and at times did seem repetitive conclusively but nevertheless a good read.