A Letter to the Faithful regarding Health Precautions

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

I know that by now you’re aware of the distressing news of the spread of the coronavirus in recent weeks. On March 2, Bishop Duca sent a memo to all of the pastors with suggestions and health reminders.

As per usual good hygiene practices, all parishioners and especially extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion are reminded to wash their hands well before Mass.

This is a good idea throughout the day as well to prevent the spread of any illness. Please keep in mind that Mother Church excuses us from our obligation to attend The Holy Mass when we are ill or caring for another who is ill. In fact, it is a great act of charity toward our brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ when we remain home from the celebration of The Mass when we are sick so as not to endanger their health. While it may feel a bit strange to stay home on Saturday evening or Sunday if we are significantly ill, The Lord recognizes the intent of our hearts to be present at Mass. That said, if you’re well ­­– please come to church!

After reading the suggestions of Bishop Duca and in consultation with Fr. Amrit and my staff, I have decided to enact immediately and until further notice two suggestions based on those made by the bishop:

First, we will not offer Holy Communion under both species; by this I mean that only the Precious Body of Christ will be offered at all Masses in our TriParishes. While this may be difficult for some, it is important to remember what the Church has taught since Her earliest days: “nothing is lost by the Body being received by the people without the Blood: because the priest both offers and receives the Blood in the name of all, and the whole Christ is present under either species. ¹

Second, the option of sharing the Sign of Peace before the Agnus Dei ( Lamb of God…) will be omitted. This is not ideal, but please remember that the Sign of Peace is not presented as an essential part of the celebration of the Mass, rather it is an option that may be exercised at the discretion of the priest celebrant. Following the priest’s extending “The Peace of the Lord be with you always.” And the congregation’s response, “And with your spirit.” The Mass will continue with the intonation of the Agnus Dei.

I would ask you not to mistake these measures as an opportunity to panic or for unwarranted concern. Instead, please be vigilant and follow the instructions of government leaders and medical professionals as this virus is fought with their expertise and our good habits of health.

Finally, please lift up in prayer all of those who suffer from the coronavirus and the serious flu season throughout the world. May St. Roch, the patron saint against epidemics, drive illness away by means of his powerful intercession with God and graciously help us.
 
Pax Christi,

Fr. Chris Decker
Pastor
 

• Download this letter as a PDF

• Norms for the Distribution and Reception of Holy Communion Under Both Kinds
• The General Instruction of the Roman Missal