2 questions about mass

[Guest Elizabeth]

I've been attending Catholic mass for a year and a half now. I am not a confirmed Catholic, so I always wonder if I am allowed to cross myself in church? When I first started attending, I didn't, but now I want to. I want to become more involved in the mass. Is it wrong if I start doing it?

2nd question: During communion, can I walk up with my arms crossed over my chest and receive a blessing? When I first started going, my friend told me just to sit there and wait for him to come back. But I see other people go up and get blessed. I want to participate as much as I can.

Any suggestions are much appreciated.

Thanks

[Cam42]

Well, what do you mean? If you mean spontaneously crossing yourself, I suppose that you could. There is nothing in the rubrics that state that we are to do that, however.

Traditionally, Catholics Cross themselves when they enter the Church, at the beginning of Mass, after the confietor, at the end of the Gloria, at the end of the Creed, at the end of the Sanctus, at a point in the Canon, and at the final blessing.

However, now it is mainly limited to the beginning of Mass and end of Mass. I would say that if you want to cross yourself, there is nothing technically wrong with it, but it is not mentioned in the rubrics.

As far as your second question goes, you will get differing views. I would suggest that you consult your parish first, and then if you don't get an answer that is sufficent there, you consult your diocesan office (chancery). They will give you proper direction.

Personally, I am not a gigantic fan of it. I think that it is confusing and it presumes a sense of unity that isn't really there, theologically speaking. However, that is simply an opinion and should be taken as such. I would consult your parish and diocese. That is the safe play.

Cam