With both San Bernardino and Riverside counties moving into less restrictive tiers in California’s reopening blueprint, Bishop Alberto Rojas has moved to reinstate two practices related to Holy Communion.
Parishioners who desire it can once again receive communion on the tongue, Bishop Rojas has stipulated.
“Bishop Rojas expresses his gratitude to the members of the faithful who have obediently abided by the practice of receiving Holy Communion in the hand in time of pandemic,” states a letter to the priests of the Diocese announcing the changes. “As we have learned more about COVID-19 and continue to take seriously the various safety measures issued, we are now at a point to once again resume the traditional practice of distributing Holy Communion on the tongue.”
The letter acknowledges that additional health and safety precautions will need to taken as this practice is reinstated. “It is highly recommended that all Ordinary and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assisting with distribution of Holy Communion on the tongue receive the COVID-19 vaccination (both doses) to ensure the health/safety of the minister and of all members of the faithful,” it states.
Bishop Rojas has also given clearance for clergy and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to the Sick to visit the sick in hospitals, care facilities and homes, upon request. Again, all health and safety protocols of facilities must be observed, and ministers are advised to keep their visit to no more than 15 minutes.