A kiss by a human being can have different meanings.

Kissing the feet can be a sign of service, gratitude and humility.

Kissing the hands is usually a sign of profound respect.

Kissing the cheeks can have two meanings: the usual one is of greeting; the other can be of treachery and betrayal as with Judas the Iscariot.

Kissing the lips can be both a sexual and an affectionate gesture.

Kissing the forehead is a sign of blessing and is a very touching expression, having a profound effect on the receiver.

Kissing the head is also a profound sign of blessing, both human and spiritual.

In Istanbul, Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I imparted this last blessing on Pope Francis at the Phanar, his official residence.

This spontaneous gesture by Patriarch Bartholomew has a profound significance, humanly, spiritually and theologically.

Our Pope was acquainted with this gesture firstly from the Pentecostals in his native Argentina.

This sign will not be lost on the Catholic and Orthodox faithful and adherents. There is increasing hope for the future of their mutual relations, which will benefit all mankind. Above all, they have given this sign in prayer.

Difficulties and obstacles to reunion in non-uniformity there will be but the signs are that, in the end, they will be overcome, through the intervention of the Holy Spirit and the Blessed Virgin.