Acts of Worship: Sharing the Peace

Whatever the form, the message is reconciliation.

Sharing the peace is integral to the biblical and theological meaning of the service. It teaches the importance of reconciliation in the church. Even in times of conflict, we are able to greet one another in the hope of God's peace which passes all understanding. This is not the time for chitchat or lengthy introductions.

The most common greeting in our culture is a handshake and a word of peace. In the ancient churches of the Middle East where this custom has continued uninterrupted, the form depends on what is common in their culture. For example, Eastern Syrians clasp one another's hand and kiss. Armenians simply bow to one another.

Whatever the form of the greeting, its message is reconciliation between sisters and brothers gathered in God's service.

In Romans 16:16, members of the congregation are encouraged to greet one another "with a holy kiss." The first letter of Peter ends, "Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ" (1 Peter 5:14).

New Testament references like these point to the origins of the greeting of peace practiced in many congregations at worship. A kiss is a common greeting among friends in the Mediterranean world where Christianity was born. That is one of the shocking aspects of the betrayal of Jesus, accomplished by means of a kiss.

In the second century, Justin Martyr wrote a description of congregational worship primarily for non-Christians. He notes that after the prayers of intercession, those present greet one another with a kiss. Then bread and the cup of wine mixed with water are presented to the presider, who offers praise and thanksgiving to God.

The place of sharing the peace in the service responds to Jesus' command, " when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come quickly and offer your gift" (Matthew 5:23-24).

Your Friend and Vicar

Phillip