Preaching Goes Viral

COVID-19 Response and Resources

At the start of Mass, and again at the time of Communion, the priest should explain how Holy Communion will be distributed. Distribution of the Precious Blood to the faithful is suspended at this time, nor should the lay faithful receive by intinction. In Masses with a small number of people, Communion should be distributed by the priest(s) and deacon. When capacities increase, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion need to be trained regarding these special procedures. The minister is to wash or sanitize his hands before distributing Holy Communion. He may also put on a mask. Holy Communion may not be distributed with gloves, nor may it be received in the hand if someone is wearing a glove. Instead, proper and diligent hand hygiene should be observed before and after distributing and/or receiving Holy Communion. The faithful should remove any masks and gloves as they approach the minster. If possible, a stand with a corporal and hand sanitizer should be at the place of distribution of Holy Communion. If possible, the reverence and the verbal exchange could take place 6’ away. Bow – “The Body of Christ” – “Amen” – then step forward to receive. The minister should take special care not to touch the faithful in any way (hand, tongue, etc.). If he does, he should pause, place the ciborium on the nearby table, sanitize his hands, and then proceed. It is not necessary to sanitize hands between each communicant unless physical contact is made. The faithful have a right to receive Holy Communion in the hand or on the tongue. Receiving Holy Communion on the tongue could cause concern for some parishioners following behind (in the line for Holy Communion) about spreading droplets to the fingers of the minister via breath. Options for handling this fear includes: Ask those receiving on the tongue to please receive last Have a designated minister for Holy Communion for those who wish to receive on the tongue Special provisions (such as those in need of low-gluten hosts, those unable to receive even low-gluten hosts, and Holy Communion to the homebound) should receive particular consideration from pastors. If the celebrant of the Mass is in a higher-risk group, a different priest, deacon, or EMHC may distribute Holy Communion.

[OLD] Accept or reject public health guidelines

Archdiocese of Detroit

Detroit, MI

Roman Catholic

11/11/2020 16:54