Many of our faithful are understandably concerned about the spreading of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Even though there is no reason to panic, we should all take steps to help prevent the spread of this illness. These are some commons sense practices and small changes we will implement during the liturgies here at Saint Peter’s community following the suggestions coming from our archdiocese;
https://www.archspm.org/guidance-regarding-the-coronavirus/
We invite everyone to refrain from hand-holding during the Our Father.
At the Sign of Peace, you may choose to simply say “Peace be with you,” without offering your hand.
We will suspend Communion from the Chalice.
Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion are provided with alcohol-based hand sanitizer to use before distributing communion.
We will empty holy water fonts.
These circumstances are a good reminder that we desire to seek God above all, and that our life depends on His Love alone.
It can also be a moment to rediscover a deeper
love and reverence for the Eucharist.
Please continue to pray for those families affected by Influenza and the COVID-19 virus.
It is good, indeed, to be reminded that: “
The Eucharist is the very sacrifice of the Body and Blood of the Lord Jesus which he instituted to perpetuate the sacrifice of the cross throughout the ages until his return in glory. Thus he entrusted to his Church this memorial of his death and Resurrection. It is a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a paschal banquet, in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.” (Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, n. 271)
In each of the Sacred Species “
Jesus Christ is present in the Eucharist in a unique and incomparable way. He is present in a true, real and substantial way, with his Body and his Blood, with his Soul and his Divinity. In the Eucharist, therefore, there is present in a sacramental way, that is, under the Eucharistic species of bread and wine, Christ whole and entire, God and Man.” (
Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, n. 282)
Therefore, in receiving only the consecrated host, we receive the entirety of the Blessed Sacrament.
This is a beautiful occasion to grow in love and understanding of the great Mystery of the Eucharist.
Here is a list of essential resources to help educate us in our love for the Eucharist.