Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Christians perform a ritual of making crosses on their forehead, lips, and heart before the Gospel is read during Mass. This practice underscores the unique significance of the Gospels in conveying the revelation of Jesus Christ. Father Christopher Trummer explains that this gesture is a prayer for transformation, asking God to make believers receptive to His Word.

The Second Vatican Council's Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation Dei Verbum highlights the "special preeminence" of the Gospels among all Scriptures. The Church emphasizes this by giving greater solemnity to their proclamation during Mass. The Gospels are often read from an ornate book called the "Book of the Gospels," which is carried in procession and sometimes incensed.

Father Trummer elaborates that making the sign of the cross on one's forehead, mouth, and chest symbolizes a prayer for transformation in mind, speech, and heart. He references Romans 12:2 where St. Paul encourages believers to be transformed by renewing their minds. Similarly, Jesus' teachings stress speaking from a good heart as seen in Luke 6:45.

Father Trummer advises praying silently as one makes these gestures: “May the Lord be in my mind, on my lips, and in my heart.” This prayer seeks to ensure that God's Word reaches deep within believers every time they hear or read it.

Father Christopher Trummer serves as parochial vicar at St. Boniface Parish in Edwardsville and holds various roles within healthcare and theological circles.