The Meaning of the Sign of the Cross Catholics begin each prayer with the Sign of the Cross, but what does this act mean? How to Make the Sign of the Cross Start with your right hand on your forehead and move it to your heart or stomach. Then tap your left shoulder and move your hand to your right shoulder. While tracing the cross, we pray: Forehead: "In the name of the Father" Heart: "and of the Son" Shoulders Left to Right: "and the Holy Spirit" "Amen." The Meaning of the Sign of the Cross The