CHARLOTTE — Public Masses and other parish gatherings of more than 10 people are still not allowed under current public health restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, so priests of the diocese have been working out ways they can safely and appropriately administer the sacraments, particularly Holy Communion.
At the pastor’s discretion and in accord with liturgical norms, Holy Communion may be offered according to the rite of Holy Communion Outside of Mass in groups of fewer than 10 people, while maintaining social distancing guidelines consistent with state health directives.
An example was this April 19 Communion service held in the Chapel of the Two Hearts, located inside St. Patrick Cathedral’s Family Life Center.
While wearing protective face coverings and maintaining a safe social distance, more than 350 people came in groups of nine people at a time to attend brief Communion services scheduled at intervals throughout the day in the cathedral and chapel.
The rite of Holy Communion Outside of Mass is not designed to replace the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass during this ongoing pandemic, but it is allowed in “extraordinary” circumstances if the celebration of the Eucharist is impossible for a “grave cause” (“Redemptionis Sacramentum,” 164).
— SueAnn Howell | Catholic News Herald