I’m an interpreter for the deaf at Mass. The particular church where I interpret is chock full of these “hand holders” during the Lord’s Prayer.
Problem is, my deaf worshipers sign the Lord’s Prayer! There have been instances where hearing people standing next to them have actually reached over and grabbed their hands mid-sign and tried to hold hands! Yes, they can be that clueless and insensitive. When that’s happened I’ve had to step over and say to the clutzes “They’re deaf; they’re signing - they need to use their hands.” Their reaction? Usually “Oh! I didn’t realize...”
Deaf interpreters at Mass have a special place in my heart. A very dear friend of mine is one, and I miss her since we’ve moved.
I admit that I enjoy holding hands as a result of an occasion where an elderly woman grabbed my hand at Mass many years ago. I looked over to see her beautiful blue eyes and gray hair. I felt like I was seeing my long-deceased Grandma in the flesh!! As soon as the Our Father was finished, I had to hurriedly excuse myself to the restroom, where I wept uncontrollably for several minutes. I almost missed Holy Communion but returned just in the nick of time.
While I enjoy hand holding because of the previously mentioned experience, I am not at all offended if my extended hand is not grasped. There are lots of reasons not to do it, and they are all legitimate. Hand holding is definitely not required.
P.S. Love your tag line!
Oh, my gosh, people are dumb.