Ninth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

This study focuses on the use of the Christian symbol of the cross for emotional support and comfort in contemporary American students. Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and some Protestant denominations use the symbol of the cross, crossing one’s self, as a way of asking for a blessing. The act of crossing oneself is frequently used by traditional Greek Orthodox believers whenever they see a church, a religious icon, or when they pray. Roman Catholic believers also cross themselves as part of prayer rituals. While numerous studies have focused on the effect of prayer and religiosity on health and wellbeing, there is very little research on the amount of comfort experienced by those who cross themselves, as well as the use of other religious symbols for emotional support. The use of religious symbols will be examined using a sample of undergraduate students at a private religiously affiliated university in the United States. Most students attending the university are Protestant Christians, but a significant percentage (about 40%) come from a variety of religious traditions; mostly Roman Catholic, some Greek Orthodox, and a number of other religious traditions. A questionnaire will be used to focus on students’ own religious practices and possible use of the Cross or other religious symbols for personal comfort.