Ask Fr Francis

The current Roman Missal does not stipulate such a gesture at the penitential rite. So,there is no requirement to do so. However, the Roman Missal also is not in the custom of forbidden some degree of local adaptations and customs, as well as some degree of spontaneity where it is appropriate. Many customs carry a significance to the gesture of making the sign of the cross when receiving mercy. So if an individual felt moved to make the sign of the cross during the penitential rite, it is an apt individual expression of sorrow and should not be denied.