How do I greet others around me?

In brief, the Eucharist is the sum and summary of our faith: “Our way of thinking is attuned to the Eucharist, and the Eucharist in turn confirms our way of thinking.”

-- Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1327) 

Sign of Peace

 The Sign of Peace symbolizes what we will soon receive in Holy Communion. It expresses peace, communion and charity.

 The General Instruction of the Roman Missal says in No. 82: "The Rite of Peace follows, by which the Church asks for peace and unity for herself and for the whole human family, and the faithful express to each other their ecclesial communion and mutual charity before communicating in the Sacrament."

 This is not supposed to be a time of greeting everyone we know or starting a conversation. If we greet dozens and ignore others next to them that we don't know, does that express unity and love?

Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski, 2022, Passport to the Eucharist, p. 47

When it comes to the Sign of Peace during Mass, the key is to keep it simple and meaningful, reflecting the peace and unity it’s meant to represent. The idea isn’t to turn it into a social hour or a popularity contest, but to sincerely share a moment of connection with those around you—whether you know them or not.

A good approach might be to turn to the people nearest you—left, right, front, back—and offer a calm, genuine gesture: a nod, a smile, and a quiet “Peace be with you.” You don’t need to reach across pews or seek out every familiar face. If you’re with family or friends, a gentle handshake or touch might feel natural, but for strangers, keeping it brief and respectful works just as well. The point is to include everyone nearby in a way that feels equal and intentional, not selective or distracted.

It’s less about the “how” of the gesture and more about the spirit behind it—showing peace and charity without letting it become a production.

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