Last Saturday -the eve of Advent Sunday - Holy Cross, Thomson, had a booth at that city’s Christmas on Main Street. Wearing Holy Cross Episcopal sweatshirts, four parishioners sold arts and crafts. Meanwhile, borrowing an idea he’d received via email, their vicar, Ken Rowland, similarly clad, walked through the crowd holding high a homemade sign that stated in big, bold letters "FREE HUGS!"

“I not only gave approximately 250 hugs in two hours but I also received 250 hugs!” Ken exclaimed. Hugs came from young children, teenagers, young adults, mature citizens, males, females, blacks, whites, Baptists, Methodists, Catholics, and a Jewish lady who replied Happy Hanukkah. Each one of them was greeted with a hug and a "Merry Christmas." The Jewish lady even enthusiastically agreed to lead a Seder meal at Holy Cross.

He commented, “I don't know who enjoyed it more – them or me. I don't know how many people will visit Holy Cross because of this day but that wasn't the purpose. Love and peace to all!”

Click here to see the video of the original idea!