With flu season in full swing, what precautions should we take at Curé?
I’d like to take time to remind everyone once again that there are certain precautions we should all take regarding flu and the spread of illness at all times.
First, if you are sick, you are automatically dispensed from your obligation to attend Mass. There is no sin in such a case. Don’t spread your illness. If you are sick enough to stay home from work or school, stay home from Mass. There are some in our congregation who have weakened immune systems, so please don’t put them in danger by attending Mass when you are sick. Instead, pray at home, read the readings, or watch Mass on EWTN or something. If you need to care for someone sick, you are also dispensed from your Mass obligation.
Second, wash your hands and use good hygiene. We ask all Eucharistic ministers especially to wash their hands and also to use hand sanitizer before Mass (and right before giving out communion if possible) and afterwards.
Third, should a person receive from the cup? That is your personal choice. One always receives Jesus fully—body, blood, soul, and divinity—whenever one receives the Eucharist under either form whether Body or Blood. Receiving both Body and Blood is a “fuller sign” and is encouraged, but you still receive all of Jesus even if you only receive under the species of bread. If a person thinks they might be sick, they should not receive from the cup.
Fourth, should you shake hands? Not if you are sick. Just smile, wave, make a peace sign, nod your head, bump knuckles, or simply just say, “I have a cold.” Bring your own hand sanitizer if this still bothers you.
Basically, we should make use of common sense precautions and hygiene for our own sake and for the sake of others. Be understanding of each other. And, at all times let us not forget to pray for and care for those sick!
-Fr. Greg
If you would like submit a question, please write it out and place it in the “Ask a Priest” box in the vestibule or email me at frgreg@kc.rr.com.
