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Most Reverend Shelton J. Fabre, Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, shared a message with the media this afternoon regarding the coronavirus. A letter that contains much of the information provided in this statement will be read in its entirely in all Masses this weekend.
“With the care and well-being of our parishioners, clergy, lay employees, and all the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux on my heart, I want to provide us with some information and pastoral directives regarding the coronavirus disease,” shared the Bishop’s message. It continues:
“The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux continues to follow the guidance of all local, state and federal health officials with regard to all communicable diseases. We continue to remind our church parishes, schools and other Catholic ministries that the best ways to prevent the spread of coronavirus are the same preventions that are recommended for the spread of the flu and common cold. Here are some fundamentals that always apply:
* We urge our priests, deacons, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion to practice good hygiene, washing their hands or even using an alcohol based anti-bacterial solution before Mass begins.
* We remind our faithful that if they are sick or are experiencing symptoms of sickness they are not obliged to attend Mass and are encouraged not to do so.
Further, I am announcing in consultation with the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s Office of Worship, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and CDC recommendations, the following measures be taken immediately in the celebration of the liturgy during this time of concern:
* Suspending the distribution of the Precious Blood via the chalice to the faithful during Holy Communion.
* Suspending the exchange of physical contact during the sign of peace; instead, verbally saying “peace be with you” to your neighbors in the pew.
* I am strongly recommending, but not requiring, that the faithful receive Holy Communion in the hand, though no one is to be denied Holy Communion on the tongue.
…Be assured of my prayers for you, your loved ones, and all the people in our diocese during this time of concern.”
You can find more information and resources concerning the coronavirus disease here: htdiocese.org/coronavirus.
