FW-SB Diocese issues H1N1 statement

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Catholic churches in the Fort Wayne-South Bend Diocese won't be offering wine at Mass because of health concerns related to the H1N1 flu outbreak starting October 17.

The Diocese issued the following statement regarding Bishop D'Arcy's decision on October 13:

In a letter to his priests, Bishop John M. D’Arcy said that in light of the spread of the H1N1 virus, the administering of Holy Communion from the cup will be suspended at all parish Masses beginning the weekend of October 18 and 19, 2009 – the 29th Sunday of the year in Catholic liturgy.

This suspension applies to all parish Masses – both weekdays and Sundays – and in all parish churches.

Also, for further protection of the health of all, the greeting of peace is optional or may be given verbally or by a nod of the head.

Bishop D’Arcy cited the advice he received from priests who are vicars, or deans, in the various sections of the Diocese of Fort Wayne - South Bend and also cited the endorsement of Dr. Deborah McMahan, Health Commissioner of Allen County, who indicated that the present situation is a “pandemic” in the sense that individuals do not have the natural immunity against the H1N1 virus.

The suspension will be lifted once the situation is eased and pending proper medical advice. Bishop D’Arcy urged the priests to catechize clearly that receiving of Holy Communion under each species; that is, from the cup or the sacred host, the Church teaches that the Body and Blood of Christ is fully present.

The Eucharistic presence of Christ begins at the moment of the consecration and endures as long as the Eucharistic species subsist. Christ is present whole and entire in each of the species and whole and entire in each of their parts, in such a way that the breaking of the bread does not divide Christ. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1377)

The bishop said that these steps have been taken to prevent illness among our parishioners and the wider community. We are cooperating with health officials for the protection of our own health and the health of those outside the parish community, and especially our children. “We regard this,” said the bishop, “as a serious responsibility.”

This matter will be monitored until this health crisis has eased and the return to receiving under both species will be allowed as soon as this seems reasonably safe.

 

On October 6, the following statement was posted on the Diocese web site concerning the H1N1 flu outbreak:

Memorandum on the Swine Flu

 

We have received communication from the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Divine Worship related
to participation at Masses at this time of the swine influenza outbreak. In the course of a
conference call with the Vicars Forane, officers of the Presbyteral Council, and other diocesan
leaders, recommendations were made, and Bishop D’Arcy asks that these be implemented
immediately.

1. Anyone who is seriously ill with a cough and fever should be reminded that they do not have
an obligation to attend Sunday Mass. In fact, it would be better if they did not attend Sunday
Mass and infect others.

2. Anyone who feels ill at all should not receive Holy Communion from the cup.

3. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are asked to wash their hands before Mass
begins and use a sanitizing cloth before communion distribution. They are reminded to wash
their hands after Mass also.

4. Some people will prefer not to shake hands at the Sign of Peace, and this should be respected.

5. We encourage everyone including ushers and greeters to practice good hygiene, especially
washing hands on a regular basis.

We are not advocating any other changes at the present time, but will monitor the situation and
recommend further changes if the situation seems to demand it. Thank you for your cooperation
in this.