Bible Dictionaries
Kiss, Liturgical Use of

1910 New Catholic Dictionary

1. As enjoined by Saint Peter and Saint Paul, early Christians terminated any reading of Scriptures with a kiss.

2. At High Mass the celebrant kisses the altar, and presents his left cheek to the deacon's, saying Pax tecum (peace be with you); the deacon conveys the salute to the sub-deacon, thence to the other clergy. This is called the Kiss of Peace.

3. The celebrant kisses the altar nine times during Mass as a symbol of respect.

4. Kissing the pope's foot is a salute of respect in solemn papal Mass, at the "veneration" of the pope by cardinals, and in a private audience.

5. A bishop kisses those he has just ordained priests.

Bibliography Information
Entry for 'Kiss, Liturgical Use of'. 1910 New Catholic Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/​dictionaries/​eng/​ncd/​k/kiss-liturgical-use-of.html. 1910.