I wrote this reflection on Friday, February 14th 2025. Valentine’s Day – chocolates, red roses, cards, gifts, special meals – a plethora of items and rituals to show our love for that special person/s in our lives. But also a time when loss or loneliness might be exacerbated for others.
So I was surprised and intrigued by research that showed in the early church (first four centuries) it was common for Christians during worship services to kiss each other on the lips – men and women! The holy kiss (chaste with lips closed as specified by Clement) was a regular part of different worship services. And a way to identify as Christian. I tried to imagine this happening today, but suspect that many of us would be uncomfortable with this physical exchange in a Christian worship setting.
However, I have heard more than once the comment that for some in our faith community, the passing of peace may be the only time of real physical connection during the week. And I clearly remember the excitement and joy as I drove to the first communion service after the Covid months of prohibition.
Have we lost something that was quite special and precious about our physicality in worship to God?
Just a thought!
Happy Valentine’s and chaste kiss to you all.
Rev Ceri
