The Diocese says the obligation to take part in mass does not apply to those who are sick
The Diocese has highlighted how the Health Protection Surveillance Centre has previously said receiving Holy Communion directly on the tongue should be discouraged during flu season, and says that when it occurs, priests or Ministers of the Eucharist should clean their hands using an alcohol based hand gel.
It is also advised that during flu season the sign of peace can be suspended but clergy may choose to encourage people to carry out an alternative action that does not involve hand contact such as ‘a smile, nod or bow’.
