The risk of H1N1, coupled with evidence that the flu season is starting earlier this year, has lead the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Office for Worship and the Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission to suggest preventative measures in liturgy and communion distribution.

All ministers are reminded to wash their hands properly before the beginning of Mass; in addition, parishes may have bottles of alcohol-based hand sanitizer available for communion ministers.

Proper techniques for distributing communion are also important. It is necessary to take care not to touch the mouth, tongue or teeth of a communicant receiving communion on the tongue. When ministering the cup, ministers should take care to wipe both the inside and outside of the chalice.

The Church teaches that Christ is present, whole and entire, in either species (body or blood); therefore, it is the decision of the pastor whether or not Communion will be distributed through one or both species.

The person responsible for caring for the vessels after Mass should be sure all vessels are properly purified and cleaned. Purificators are also to be laundered according to liturgical norms.

There has never been a documented case of a disease being transmitted through the sharing of the cup; however, parishioners should take their health into consideration when deciding to attend Mass, offer the sign of peace and/or receive the cup.

The detailed guidelines for distribution of communion and the flu can be found in both English and Spanish translation by clicking this link.