Concerns About Flu If you have liturgical concerns about church services during a pandemic, consider the following advice from the Diocese of Maryland:
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 (i.e. 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. Intinction (dipping the bread into the cup), however, poses a greater potential threat, especially when the bread is handled with unwashed hands.
Chalice bearers: Wipe the rim of the cup and turn it after every person is served.
Clergy: Wash your hands, and consider using an anti-bacterial gel before the administration of communion.