OCD and the Sign of Peace

[Titivillus]

I can refuse to shake hands on a one-to-one basis, but Mass is different - different people each time and no time/context to explain why you don’t want to do it.

Perhaps you could have calling cards (or holy cards!) printed up with a message, and offer them to people who extend hands toward you? Something along the lines of

Thank you for your expression of Peace. Please know I wish you Peace as well

I also suffer from an anxiety disorder and am unable to shake your hand. Thank you for understanding

 

[Wendy1989]

Can you/are you able to wear gloves?

There was a gentleman at my parish who suffered from a skin disorder. My parish is friendly - sometimes too insistant on being friendly and wearing the gloves seemed to keep people from shaking his hand - or if they did, no skin contact.

 

[phil19034]

Hello. I have OCD. In Ireland, the sign of peace at Mass is the handshake. This is a major problem for me and I don’t know how to avoid it.

Just wave. Or clasp your hands together in the prayer position and nod your head (similar to a Chinese or Japaneses bow)

 

[rondirect]

Put your head down so you don’t have to maybe?

I agree: Try holding your hands together, close your eyes and look down. People who turn to you will turn away and I really think they will understand without knowing about your OCD illness. Or, hold your hands together and simply nod and smile and whisper “peace.” I really believe people will be at peace with that. But, always keep your hands down and clasped together.

The other thought is sitting with people you know and know you at all times. Is that possible?

Many ideas here. Try each and see which works best for you. No need to go to church with the feeling of distress of the Rite of Peace each Sunday.

Be well…

 

[Angel_Bradford]

Just keep your hands folded and your eyes closed. If any one persist, just look and them and say “Peace”.

 

[HolySpirit]

Why don’t you put your hands in your pocket. If someone asks, say “sorry, its not you, I have a germ phobia.” Problem solved.

 

[MonteRCMS]

Silently point to your throat.

 

[gcshapero]

Hello. I have OCD. In Ireland, the sign of peace at Mass is the handshake. This is a major problem for me and I don’t know how to avoid it.

It may have been said already, but don’t feel obligated to shake anyone’s hand if you’re not comfortable with that right now.

Whenever I have a cold or it is flu season, I will nod and offer the sign of peace, but I won’t extend my hand, even when they do. They understand generally and it’s no problem.

The sign of peace is technically not even a required part to the Mass. Whenever it is a really bad time of flu season, my priest will announce that he will be skipping the sign of peace so as to not get his parishioners exposed to any viruses, as is his right to do so.