Seeing how it’s Sunday, and in case you missed this t-shirt, or if you have no idea what this t-shirt means or why it is funny, you’ve come to the right place. We are traveling, so I missed church this morning. I had a Mexican omelette instead. It was close to a religious experience but not quite the same.

And also with y'all.

Anyway as you may know, in our little town of Los Olivos, California, His Grace and I are buds with Preacher and Partner. Preacher being the rector of our beautiful St. Mark’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, and Partner being his partner, which you probably figured out on your own. Partner emailed me this picture a while ago and I’ve been waiting to work it in.

In the Episcopal church–and many others as well–they do this thing called “passing the peace.” The minister says, “The peace of the Lord be always with you.” And the congregation responds, “And also with you.” Not even Southerners say “And also with y’all,” but I ’bout fell out over this t-shirt. You can get one at www.Altarpress.com.

If memory serves, about 30-some years ago the practice began to turn to your neighbor(s) and pass the peace to them. For some it was (and is) an affront, all new-agey and touchy-feely and bordering on undignified. But I think it’s nice. I’m for any opportunity to make a pleasant human connection.

Today most people just say “Peace,” to one another and sometimes “good morning” and sometimes “nice hat” and sometimes “Did you hear about Betty Lou’s new boyfriend?” That is another thing about going to church. Along with the Good News, you get the local news, too.