In response to the Covid-19 virus, in order to reduce possible transmission, the Bishop has introduced the following special measures in the Diocese of Lancaster, from now until 21 March 2020:
- The sign of peace is to be suspended at Mass.
- Holy Communion from the chalice shall cease to be offered to the lay faithful.
- You are encouraged to receive the Sacred Host in your hand, and not on your tongue. This represents an act of loving charity to our community. Alternatively, you are encouraged to make a ‘Spiritual Communion’.
- The use of holy water stoups in churches and chapels is to be suspended.
- Churches ad chapels that are open daily for private prayer should continue to remain open. Care should be given to ensuring that surfaces of high contact (light switches, door handles and areas around the door) are regularly sanitized throughout the day.
- Ministers should wash and also sanitize their hands before and after distributing Holy Communion. Shared towels should not be used in toilet areas or the sacristy.
- Shared hymnbooks and Mass books should ideally not be used at this time. Single-use Mass sheets may be used, though these should be carefully thrown away after use.
This decree has been made after consultation with health professionals and on advice from the Bishops’ Conference, and we thank you for your generosity in complying at this time.
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