Topic > Symbolism of the Cross in the Catholic Church - 1523

When the sign is made, a Catholic professes faith in the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Baptism is a sacrament for Catholics that signifies a rebirth, similar to what Jesus Christ did on the cross. When the sign of the cross is made during baptism, it symbolizes how the individual died with Christ and was resurrected to life. This act is similar to the meaning of circumcision. Discipleship is marked by the cross and according to the book of Luke demonstrates obedience to Scripture. Catholics also use the cross as a symbol of ownership, which means that a Catholic belongs to, obeys and is obedient to God and God's law. This is also an example of self-denial, one comes under the ownership of Christ and does not it belongs more to themselves. When suffering occurs, the sign of the cross is a symbol of acceptance. When suffering occurs or when there is a sense that God is no longer there, the sign of the cross brings the presence of God to the individual and acknowledges to the individual that God is with them in their time of need. In Catholicism, the greatest defense against Satan is the cross. When a Catholic believes that protection from Satan is needed, he or she will make the sign of the cross showing Satan that he or she is willingly possessed by God and that He is protecting him or her. In modern times, this is depicted in cinematic entertainment such as films and books. The film "The Exorcism" portrays how Satan is expelled from a child using the Holy Bible, a cross and the words of Christ spoken by a priest of the Catholic church. Finally, the cross signifies triumph over self-indulgence. The temptations of the flesh, such as lust, fear, greed, and anger, can all be destroyed and overcome through the cross. For a Catholic, the sign of the cross is sacred and reminds him daily of his obedience to God and