Kiss/Gesture of Peace

[PoliSciProf]

During the Kiss/Gesture of peace during Mass, I have on more than one occasion been confronted with a fellow attendee who has been sneezing or coughing into his/her hand with or without a tissue or hanky. Is there some general protocal by which I can decline an outstretched hand? I generally look into the eyes and pretend I don’t see the offered hand and say Peace be with you. I mention also that my physician advises me that I am particularly vulnerable to serious respiratory infections and that he requires that I get all the annual flu/pneumonia shots very early in the season.

 

[KathleenElsie]

During the Kiss/Gesture of peace during Mass, I have on more than one occasion been confronted with a fellow attendee who has been sneezing or coughing into his/her hand with or without a tissue or hanky. Is there some general protocol by which I can decline an outstretched hand? I generally look into the eyes and pretend I don’t see the offered hand and say Peace be with you. I mention also that my physician advises me that I am particularly vulnerable to serious respiratory infections and that he requires that I get all the annual flu/pneumonia shots very early in the season.

If I have a cold etc I keep my hands folded and slightly bow my head to those around me. If I notice that those around me are sneezing or coughing etc I do the same. Just keep your hands folded and acknowledge those around you with a nod or bow.