Can we talk about the handshake line?

Yes, it's been ages since I've written a blog post (doesn't anyone actually blog anymore?!). But I was recently diagnosed with shingles, so I'm trying to "rest" for a couple days and let the anti-viral meds kick in. Of course, when I rest, the mind starts going and I started thinking about the post-church handshake line.

So...

Can we talk about the handshake line?

First of all, I’m happy to shake your hand. But if you’d rather not, that’s cool too. Fist bump, elbow bump, a nod, a wave, whatever you're comfortable with is fine with me.

I’m happy to give you a hug, if that’s your jam, but I will never initiate one. Nobody should ever feel pressure to hug their priest, or anyone else for that matter.

This is a time for a brief greeting and maybe a quick comment. It’s not the place for an in-depth conversation about why I decided to change the Christmas Eve service times this year (for the record, I did not). 

If you tell me something important, I will forget it. Please follow it up with an email. Especially if it’s a pastoral issue. 

If you feel this is the time to lodge a complaint or tell me something you dislike about me, my ministry, or my preaching, know that I’d much rather meet over coffee to discuss the issue. Also, know that I will absolutely remember your comment, especially if it’s mean-spirited or unfair.

I’m happy to hear all about your recent vacation to Turks and Caicos. At Coffee Hour.

If you walk past me without offering a greeting, I never take this personally. Sunday morning can bring up various emotions -- we're all at different places in our lives and some of those places are hard to bear.

Please don’t comment on my appearance, and know that I will never comment on yours. My women clergy colleagues bear this burden much more than men. Just don't go there, even if it's a compliment. 

Please do say your name - that’s always appreciated, especially in a large congregation where it’s impossible to know everyone. Obviously there are some people who need no introduction because we’re actively serving in ministry with them. But the handshake line is a blur, and it's nice to be reminded of names. Or just wear a name tag!

Don't be offended if I can't remember meeting you even though we "met" on the handshake line after the fourth service on Easter Day in 2022.

In the end, I truly do love greeting everyone after church. I love giving high fives to children, welcoming visitors, seeing familiar faces, and watching the fullness of the Body of Christ leave the church renewed, transformed, and inspired to love and serve the Lord in the coming week.