The Communion ritual has been enhanced markedly by the restoration of the Kiss of Peace from the ancient Roman Rite. In ancient times they referred to it as a "seal to their prayers." Now the Sign of Peace has taken on an added dimension; it is a token of love amongst the Christians before taking part in the sharing of the Sacrament of our redemption, the Body and Blood of Christ.

It is understandable that for some people of different cultural backgrounds, the Sign of Peace may even be disturbing. For these people, even minimal tactile contact can be unsettling in a public forum and within the context of the Sacred Liturgy. However it should be noted that this ritual has very ancient roots.

Ancient (and many modern) cultures treated the kiss as a gesture of public greeting (our modern handshake), and a valiant attempt is being made to resurrect and recharge these traditions and symbols with this new and relevant meaning.

For those of you who find it difficult to participate in this ritual, try to remember that the Holy Mass is public prayer taking into account our American cultural experiences as well. A handshake and a word of kindness is not too much to ask. We do much more for a "buck" in the business world! If you really don't like it, figure that others do and you really are helping them express our common prayer and communal life.

Parishes continue to try other forms of community building and of expressing connectedness... to reaffirm our unity and family in Christ.

Psalm 133:1 "How good it is, how pleasant, where the people dwell as one!"