GREEN BAY (NBC 26) - The Diocese of Green Bay is recommending churches to consider changing some of their service practices. This comes amidst coronavirus and flu concerns.
Many Catholic dioceses have stopped serving wine during communion; there are also changes in how the Communion wafer is distributed.
In a letter issued Thursday, the Diocese is also recommending people to stay home from mass if they're sick.
"I am personally not worried," said Shannon Greisen, a parishioner. "We try to always teach our kids to wash their hands with soap before they put anything in their mouths anyway so this is just a great reminder of those hygiene skills we should have all the time."
A list of recommendations from the letter is listed below. The Diocese said these are in line from the U.S.C.C.B. and their own diocesan policies.
• "Parishioners with symptoms of illness should be reminded that the obligation to attend Sunday Mass does not apply to those who are ill, especially if they are suffering from a contagious illness. This is an obligation in charity for themselves and others that those with flu-like symptoms remain at home.
• Priests, deacons and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion are encouraged to practice good hygiene, including washing hands before Mass begins. The use of an alcohol based antibacterial hand sanitizer before and after distributing Holy Communion is also advised.
• The Sign of Peace need not be announced or exchanged. If the invitation is announced, parishioners should consider a simple gesture such as a head nod, a bow or simply the words “Peace be with you.” Avoiding handshakes, embraces and other physical contact is advised.
• If your parish has the practice of distributing Holy Communion under both species, the distribution of the Precious Blood of Christ from the chalice should be discontinued for the time being."