The Peace
On many occasions, I have been asked why we exchange the Peace during our communion services. To my knowledge, it became part of our service when the national Episcopal Church — Liturgical Commission, which oversees liturgical and prayer book revisions, changed the 1928 edition of the Prayer Book to the current 1979 edition of “The Book of Common Prayer”.[1] This was done after much research, study and input from members of the clergy and laity.
The Peace was inserted as a transition between the Word, the reading of Scripture portion of the service and the Table consecration portion. When we exchange greetings, it can be a moment of connection, a visible, tangible reminder that we do not worship alone. It can be a time of reconciliation with someone with whom you have a conflict as well as a gesture of welcome to a visitor.[2] This is done, of course, with a hug, handshake, a fist bump or a holy kiss (Romans 16:16).[3] And remember, passing the peace is optional, but highly recommended.
You may feel as I do when we visit another Episcopal church: It always feels welcoming when we exchange the Peace with those around us, as it does with all our services at St. Martin’s.
“The Peace of God which passes all understanding” is something we all need to give and receive during our time of worship.
So, the Peace of the Lord be with you. And also with you. Amen.
[1] “The Book of Common Prayer,” Rite I p. 332, Rite II p. 360.
[2] Forward Day by Day October 2023, p78.
[3] 1 Thessalonians 5:26, I Corinthians 16:20 (We are to greet each other with a holy kiss.)
