performed. In the Tridentine Mass, the sign of peace is given at Solemn Masses alone and is exchanged only among the clergy (unless emperors, kings or princes were present, in which case they, too, received the greeting by means of a paxbrede). It is given by extending both arms in a slight embrace with the words ("Peace be with you"), first by the priest celebrant to the deacon, who in turn gives it to the subdeacon, who gives the sign to any other clergy present in choir dress. There also existed a custom in some places of the groom giving the Peace to the bride at the Nuptial Mass. However, unlike the present form of the Roman Rite, neither the bride nor the groom would pass the peace to anyone else. In the Mass of Paul VI, the sign of peace is used at most Masses but is not obligatory. It is exchanged between all present in no prescribed order, except that "the Priest gives the sign of peace to a Deacon or minister". The manner prescribed is as follows: "It is appropriate that each one give the sign of peace only to those who are nearest and in a sober manner. The Priest may give the sign of peace to the ministers but always remains within the sanctuary, so as not to disturb the celebration. He does likewise if for a just reason he wishes to extend the sign of peace to some few of the faithful." The following are considered abuses by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments: introducing a "song of peace" to accompany the rite; the faithful moving from their places to exchange the sign of peace; the priest leaving the altar to give the sign of peace to some of the faithful; expressing other sentiments, e.g. expressing congratulations, best wishes or condolences among those present at a wedding, funeral or other ceremony. The gesture by which the sign of peace is exchanged is to be determined by the local episcopal conference. In some countries, such as the United States, the conference has laid down no rules, and the everyday handshake is generally used, while in other countries, such as India and Thailand, a bow is prescribed. A 2014 letter of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments recommended that conferences choose gestures more appropriate than "familiar