Return of Holy Communion from the Chalice

PRESS RELEASE

June 2, 2022

SUBJECT: Return of Holy Communion from the Chalice

MORE INFO: Justin Huyck, Coordinator of Media Relations, (330) 744-8451, ext. 320; jhuyck@youngstowndiocese.org

YOUNGSTOWN, OH — After consultation with appropriate medical professionals, the Most Rev. David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, has granted permission to return the practice of offering the Precious Blood of the Lord at Mass during Holy Communion, beginning on the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday, June 5, 2022, for parishes within the Diocese of Youngstown. To the best of their ability, and at the discretion of the pastor, parishes in the Diocese of Youngstown will be offering Holy Communion from the Chalice at all Sunday celebrations of the Eucharist, and if possible, at other celebrations of the Eucharist when it can be done with reverence and dignity. The practice of the faithful receiving the Precious Blood of the Lord from the Chalice had been on hiatus since 2020 due to the pandemic. Other dioceses in Ohio have already restored this practice.

Very Rev. Michael D. Balash, Director of the Office of Worship and Vicar for Clergy in the Diocese of Youngstown, comments that, “It is always an option, and not a requirement, for individuals to receive from the Chalice.  At the same time, the Church refers to the fuller sign value of receiving the Body and Blood of Christ under both elements of consecrated bread and wine, which dates back to the first days of the Church’s celebration of the Eucharist.  Whether one receives Holy Communion from one or both elements, the total presence of the Lord, Body and Blood, is encountered in this act of faith.”

Father Balash also notes, “Our procedures for distributing the Precious Blood have always included safeguards, including wiping the interior and exterior rim of the chalice and rotating it as effective measures to mitigate infectious disease transmission.  Of course, those who are not feeling well or are sick should refrain from receiving from the Chalice.”

More information, including answers to frequently asked questions, can be found at www.doy.org/worship/

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