The Sign of Peace

Exchanging the Sign of Peace

At every Mass, the sign of peace is exchanged between the celebrant and the people, when he says, “The peace of the Lord be always with you” and the people respond, “And with your spirit.” However the exchange of the sign of a peace of the people among themselves is optional, but strongly recommended as a sign of the Church’s desire to express our unity and mutual charity before Holy Communion.

At times, the celebrant may omit it in cases such as weekday Mass where people stand far apart from one another. The sign of peace should not be exchanged without an invitation from the altar. The Conference of Bishops decides how the sign of peace is to be exchanged. In the US, this is usually done by shaking hands or a slight bow of the head with “only to those nearest and in a sober manner.” The celebrant always remains in the sanctuary, offering the sign of peace to those closest to him, first to any concelebrant near him and then to the deacon. However. on special occasions (e.g. weddings, funerals, or when civic leaders are present) the celebrant may offer the sign of peace to those closest to the sanctuary.

The exchange of peace should not be exaggerated or prolonged lest it give the impression of being the high point of the liturgy. We should avoid leaving one’s place, turning as to wave to the entire assembly, hugging, and loud talking. Experience shows that the sign can in some instances degenerate into chaos. Appropriate moderation will help all understand that it is not a greeting of mere good will, but that it is Christ’s peace, flowing from the sacrifice of the altar and the source of our mutual peace and charity.

The Sign of Peace/ Offering Condolences at Funerals

The exchange of the sign of peace at a funeral follows the same norms as any Mass. However, the practice is growing that those just having received the Eucharist will greet the family of the deceased (usually seated in the first pew) on their way back to their place. While one has an innate desire to comfort the grieving, offering condolences at such a time is unfortunate and inappropriate, since the communicant has not even consumed the Sacred Host. It also an intrusion and disturbance to the family’s own time of prayer. Upon receiving the Eucharist, every communicant should go directly to their place and there offer their prayer for the deceased and those who mourn.