Ordinary Form·Introductory Rites
Sign of the Cross & Greeting
The priest signs himself and greets the assembly in the name of the Trinity.
What happens
When the Entrance Chant is concluded, the priest and the faithful, standing, sign themselves with the Sign of the Cross. The priest then greets the assembled people with one of the approved formulas (e.g., 'The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ…'), and the people reply, 'And with your spirit.'
Why it happens
The sign and the greeting signify the presence of the Lord to the assembled community. By this greeting and the people's response, the mystery of the Church gathered together is made manifest.
Sources
- GIRM §50
- Order of Mass nn. 2–3