One of the blessings here in Dubai

[Jon Estes]

Where do each of you, who wish to respond, stand on greeting those in the church family, who love hugs, with a hug?

In my church culture, hugging is expected by many and the double kiss on the cheek is common. It has taken me a while to get used to the kiss on the cheek thing.

I still keep my conviction to not be alone with a woman who is not my wife or my family,

I have around 20 you Filipino ladies who we have adopted as our daughters. Most of them, we know their real dads back in their country. Many of those dads are pastors and have personally thanked us for stepping in and being a dad to them... keeping an eye on them.... as they live a world apart. Many want to be married and are looking. Some have introduced me to a person they are finding interest in and I am enjoying the being a dad to my daughter (since I only had boys). I have run a few off. I have encouraged my daughters to pray hard and be careful not to only follow their heart.

Whenever we move back to the US, I do not see in any way such connection with American women happening... the PC culture rules the day.

What think ye?

[Dave Roberts]

There is a lot of hugging in the church I currently serve. It is my preference to hug from the side, and there is one lady who always kisses my cheek.

[Tim Bonney]

Hugging isn't much a part of northern US culture. Male clergy have to be quite careful about that. As Dave said a hug from the side is the safe bet, though I'd never initiate a hug. I cannot image someone offering a kiss in our the reserved culture of Iowa.

[Joseph Patrick]