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sign of the cross

Sign of the cross is a hand motion used by Christians during prayer. It is performed by touching the forehead, the breast and the shoulders by right hand, though specifics regarding the shoulder order and palm formation differ in Western Churches (generally with fingers outstretched symbolizing Christ's wounds, left shoulder is touched first) and Eastern Christians (thumb, index and middle fingers joined as a symbol of Trinity, other two fingers folded, right shoulder is touched first). Sign of cross is usually made at the beginning and end of prayers, at the mention of the Trinity and in times of temptation or danger.

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