Passing the Peace

I belong to a liturgical church.

Each week, we remind ourselves of the story that brings us together, and we share a meal.

In the middle of the orderly, predictable time we spend together each week, a burst of pandemonium breaks out. It is sparked, ironically, when one person says, The peace of God is always with you, and the rest of us respond with, And also with you.

We pass sacred peace to the people around us.

Some people are more shy, and stay in one spot shaking hands with the people within reach. Others are more exuberant, ranging far and wide to share sacred peace with as many people as they can. There is embracing with very healthy hugs and kissing.

Sometimes peace breaks out very enthusiastically, and it takes us some time to begin the next part of the liturgy.

Passing the peace is a turning point in our time together. We celebrate the story we share, and draw closer as we prepare to share a meal. It is a step from the words of our story to the tangible, physical reality of the meal. Passing the peace grounds us together in what we share. It reminds us that we are together in our community, surrounded by love, support, and sacred peace.

Each of us, no matter who we are, passes sacred peace to the people around us.

The peace we share is sacred. It does not end or evaporate. It expands when we each head out into our own lives. It is beyond our understanding, and we can share it with everyone. We pass peace to the people we meet, and they pass it on to others.

How will you pass sacred peace to the people around you today?

The peace of God is always with you.

[Image by tammyjq41]