Holding hands during Mass was something new when I moved to Milwaukee, but it is, I think, a great way to pray as a community - one Body. If all the Catholic churches were doing so every Sunday, could you imagine the power of the prayer? The Archdiocese in Milwaukee I'm pretty sure prefers this - Archbishop Dolan performed our 50th Anniversary Mass and made sure that everyone held hands. In fact, we reached across aisles. We have a large membership so it's very moving. Getting over the initial awkwardness is worth it.
>>Holding hands during Mass was something new when I moved to Milwaukee, but it is, I think, a great way to pray as a community - one Body. If all the Catholic churches were doing so every Sunday, could you imagine the power of the prayer?<<
Isn't spiritually being together enough of a prayer? After all Jesus is there on the Altar, but not in a physical body. I would much rather have fellowship after Holy Mass.
If Jesus appeared visually to you Body and Soul, standing on the Altar, would you be looking for your neighbor's hand?
I would be laying prostrate on the floor knowing I am not worthy to meet His glance.