Community Chat

[occasionalrain]

Some time ago the Exchange of Peace was changed from a general verbal response to a physical one where parishioners either hugged or would shake hands with those sitting beside, in front, and in back of them.

I don't care for the change.

I have to think there are some who avoid services because of it. Some may have arthritis in their hands, are concerned about illness, or just, like me, dislike the break in the flow. It seems like an intermission to some who then have a bit of chat with their neighbors. In my church, it's evolved from just exchanges with those close by to spilling out into the aisle and a general exchange all around.

As far as I know, it wasn't voted upon by individual parishes. It wasn't in mine. 

What your thoughts, do you like it? Do you think it adds or detracts?

[Travone]

The congregation has dwindled in the churches in my area.  It seems now most people just acknowledge others in the church with a general wave or peace symbol and a smile.  Those sitting close to each other may still shake hands.

Years ago when living down south they full out hug the others nearby.  I was shocked the first time it happened to me.  I had to warn my northern parents the first time they came to visit me so they would be prepared.

[CelticCrafter]

It was out of control.  People reaching back two and three rows to shake hands with every person within arms length.  

I didn't like being touched by strangers, didn't like touching strangers.

I don't know what it's like anymore as I am no longer a church goer.

[sashamatthews]

I never liked this practice.  I stopped doing it some time ago.

[Pqfan]

It detracts. It wouldn’t stop me from going to church(when I was still attending) but I hate when they asked people to turn and do whatever to your fellow parishioner.  Turn and give him a high five!🤣

[Pqfan]

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@CelticCrafter wrote:

It was out of control.  People reaching back two and three rows to shake hands with every person within arms length.  

I didn't like being touched by strangers, didn't like touching strangers.

I don't know what it's like anymore as I am no longer a church goer.

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Right! Hands coming out from everywhere lol🤣

[occasionalrain]

Whomever thought it a good idea didn't consider that while some would love it, I don't know even one, others would stop attending to avoid it. 

[proudlyfromNJ]

I don’t like it at all. The only time I have seen this is at funeral services in the Catholic Church. They say Peace be with you. I just mumble something.

I have not been to my Protestant Church in years so I don’t know if they do it.

[Bri369]

I don't care for it at all.

[grandma r]

I don't think it's necessary either.  I will acknowledge those around me with "peace be with you" as we were instructed to say.  Some take it further with hugs, handshakes, or kisses.  No thank you!!!  In fact, during the winter months this part is skipped.

I still remember attending Mass when everything was in Latin.  It seems to me there was more reverence then too.  Changes to the translations of various parts of the Mass don't really make sense to me.