Hugs speak comfort and connection. During the Covid-19 pandemic, we had to maintain six feet of social distancing. Hugs and handshakes were to be avoided, while we greeted one another with a wave or a fist bump. This season of distancing was really difficult, especially for children and older adults. The impact of social distancing lingers in these two groups of our population. To connect with other human beings is vital for our overall state of being, including our mental health. Hugs are important to us all! In the sermon on October 15, I talked of the value of hugs. The following is an excerpt from the sermon . . . 

When I arrived at Huguenot Road Baptist Church eight and a half years ago, I quickly learned was that this was a “hugging” church. Many faithful members were quick to educate me. They said, “The first three letters of the church’s name are HUG. We are a hugging church!” When you add the fourth letter, you get: H U G U . . . which translates to Hug U [Hug You].   

HRBC was originally named for its location on Huguenot Road. The road was named for the many French Huguenots who fled religious persecution in Europe and settled in central Virginia in the late 17th century and throughout the 18th century. But we’d rather be known for hugs than the name of the street! Perhaps this acronym will help us remember the importance of a simple hug: 

H = Human 

U = Understanding 

G = Gesture 

The Middle English word “hug” likely has its origins in the Old Norse word “hugga,” which meant “to comfort” or “to console.” Over time, the word “hug” evolved in both form and meaning, but its core concept of an affectionate embrace or a warm and close gesture has remained consistent. It’s a word that reflects the universal human desire for physical closeness, comfort and expressing affection and care for others. 

In recent decades, scientific research has shed light on the physical and psychological benefits of hugging. Hugging has been found to release oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and trust. This also acts to reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being.

Hugs also help to lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of loneliness, enhance communication and can even lead to better sleep! It’s important to remember that benefits of hugging can vary from person to person, and individual preferences for physical touch also differ. Some people need their personal space, and that’s okay. We need to pay attention to others and respect their wishes. With some people, a fist bump, handshake, pat on the shoulder or a warm smile will serve in place of a hug.  

But there are times when we just need a hug, and when appropriate, they can make our day.   

Marissa Zane (photo right) is the Manager of the Health Professions Department at James Madison University where our daughter, Isabella, is a sophomore. The campus newspaper, The Breeze, recently ran a touching story on Zane. Once a semester, she comes to campus and stands at Warner Commons to give out “free mom hugs” to students.

Zane received special permission from her supervisor, and she’s been doing it since 2021. One student named Lewis states, “Her hug was so motherly with all the care behind it. I definitely needed that.” Lewis posted about it on his social media because “she gave such a good hug that it made my day better and I knew of other people in need of a hug as well.” 

Zane said, Freshman aren’t the only ones who need a hug. Students of all ages can miss their families. Another student said, “I may be a senior, but I still miss my mom.” 

While Zane specializes in giving hugs, she is also there to talk to the students if they need it. She states, “But most of the time, all they need is a hug.”  “I’ll give a hug to anybody who needs it!” 

I am glad to serve a church where people see the value in connection with others. Whether a hug, a pat on the shoulder or a warm smile, God’s love is shared as we care for one another here at HUGUenot Road Baptist Church! 

In Christ’s care and love,