Dear Friends,

Recently a couple of people have asked me about the Sign of Peace at Mass and whether I will be announcing, “Let us offer each other the sign of peace,” at the Masses I celebrate. The instructions in the Roman Missal (the book the priest uses at the altar for the celebration of Mass) make this invitation optional. In light of this, while I may say it on occasion, my personal custom has been not saying it at most Masses I celebrate.

Whether or not those words are spoken aloud, everyone remains free to exchange the Sign of Peace with those nearby. It is helpful, however, to remember why this gesture is found at this particular moment in the Mass.

Just before we receive Holy Communion, Jesus reminds us: “Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23–24).

The Sign of Peace is not primarily about greeting our friends. Rather, it is a reminder that Christ calls us to reconciliation. As we offer peace to those around us, we should also be asking God to bring peace into those relationships that remain wounded—especially with those whom we find difficult to forgive or from whom we are estranged. In that sense, the Sign of Peace is a deeply humbling act. It prepares our hearts for the greatest encounter imaginable: receiving Jesus Christ Himself in the Holy Eucharist. Before approaching the altar, we ask the Lord to soften our hearts and make us instruments of His peace.

Of course, it is always good to greet friends before or after Mass. But at this sacred moment, our attention should remain on the Lord. Conversations such as, “Hey Rick! Great to see you! Go Pack Go!”—however well intentioned—can easily distract us and those around us from the profound mystery we are about to receive.

May the Sign of Peace always be more than a handshake. May it be a sincere prayer that Christ, the Prince of Peace, reconciles our hearts to God and to one another, so that we may receive Him with greater faith, humility, and love.

May God bless you,

  

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