A Message from our Bishops Regarding Liturgical Practices during the H1N1 (“Swine Flu”) Season

30 April 2009

We have heard from some in our diocese of health concerns as we face a potential pandemic. In an effort to encourage confidence during this time, we want to offer these guidelines for contact during worship and especially around the Holy Eucharist.

Go to Church!

• As long as you are feeling well, continue to worship as usual. Take the normal precautions if you or a family member is ill (ie. stay home).

The Passing of the Peace:

• A handshake is not mandated by the Church, and is discouraged during this time.
• Continue to verbally share the Peace of our Lord. Making eye contact, slightly bowing your head, or a friendly wave are good substitutes for the traditional handshake or hug.

The Holy Eucharist:

• It is not sacramentally necessary to receive “in both kinds” – both the bread and the wine – in order to make a full communion. A worshipper’s individual health needs may preclude taking either the bread or the wine, and the provision of non-wheat wafers for those who are allergic to wheat is encouraged.
• The Common Cup – Medical experts agree that the danger of transmitting communicable diseases by sharing the chalice is negligible. History has borne this out and we still highly encourage this ancient liturgical practice.
• Chalice bearers – be sure to wipe the rim of the cup and turn it after every person is served.
• Intinction (dipping the bread into the cup), however, poses a greater potential threat, especially when the bread is handled with unwashed hands. Therefore, we discourage this practice during this period. No fingers in the cup!
• Clergy – be sure to wash your hands, and consider using an anti-bacterial gel before the administration of communion.

As long as we all use common sense we will be fine. If a member of your parish does fall ill, please remember them in your prayers. Your Bishops are monitoring the situation and will revise these recommendations as needed.

Blessings and peace,

The Rt. Rev. Eugene Taylor Sutton
The Rt. Rev. John L. Rabb