Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People
 
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
 
Change in Distribution of Holy Communion at Mass
We have seen in the news the concern over the spread of the corona virus. At the time of this writing there are confirmed cases in the United States but thankfully, not yet in Ohio.  Concerned for the health of our parishioners and the appropriate celebration of Mass, the Diocese issued a memo with suggestions for parishes to consider.  One option is to discontinue the distribution of the Precious Blood from the cup.  Even without the corona virus threat, this has been previously suggested during the flu season. In the past we have not thought it necessary, but in light of current legitimate concerns, I sought advice from our parish council.  With their input I am deciding to suspend the distribution of the cup at all Masses at St. Paul’s. We can of course reexamine this in the future as the threat subsides. 
 
This can be a good time to remind ourselves of the Catholic doctrine of concomitance.  This mean when we receive Holy Communion, whether it’s the host alone or from the cup alone, we are still receiving both the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ.  This is because Jesus ascended into Heaven with His glorified body. Therefore, His Body and Blood, while they were separated at His death on the Cross, now cannot be separated because He is risen.  So receiving the host alone is still receiving the whole Christ.  While receiving from the cup does convey “a fuller sign” value regarding the action of Christ at the Last Supper, it is not necessary for the lay faithful to receive from the cup.  They are just as able to receive the sanctifying grace God offers.
 
This can also be a good time to remind people of general hygiene when coming to Mass.  Be mindful of what we touch: door handles, holy water fonts, backs of pews, kneelers, hand rails, bathroom appliances - all things many others have touched as well - and then we often touch our faces to scratch our nose, then we shake people’s hands at the sign of peace, then many use those same hands to receive the host, which then is placed in our mouth.  Many opportunities for germs to spread.  Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and perhaps use sanitizer as you come into Mass.  During this time we will make sure our Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are prudent in how they prepare for and then distribute Holy Communion.  If you have other concerns please leave a message in our suggestion box or feel free to contact the rectory. 
 
Financial Report Available
This weekend Jeff Kendro will give a brief review of the financial status of the parish before all the Masses.  Jeff is a faithful parishioner who assists the rectory and the finance council in fulfilling its responsibilities.  There are copies of the financial report available in the Narthex.  Jeff will be there as well after the Masses to answer any questions.  Also feel free at any time to contact me if you have questions. 
 
Happy Lent!
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Pfr