January 2011

I have had recent opportunity to consider the practice of the Kiss of Peace during the liturgy.  Apparently it is seen as disruptive by some members of the Orthodox Church.  I am offering (at least) two reflections, the first on its practice, the second on concerning elements which seem to underly the reasons offered to no longer allow or encourage the exchange of the Kiss by the laity as well as clergy.  The Kiss of Peace is a longstanding tradition that has important meaning for our Christian practice.  I offer these reflections in the hope that both laity and clergy take the opportunity to learn both the significance of the action as well as how to do it with a dignity appropriate to its meaning.