Cathedral Pandemic Policy
The Cathedral Council has reviewed its policies in response to the H1N1 pandemic threat so that we contribute as effectively as possible to community strategies to contain its spread. The Council noted that the influenza virus is spread through fluids and so our major focus is on the use of the chalice at Communion. We do not wish to withdraw the common cup from use, however we wish to encourage good care for one another. As a result the following protocols and recommendations will be in place.
1. Those distributing the elements at Communion will use an anti-bacterial hand-wash at the time of the Offertory before handling the bread and chalices.
2. Members of the congregation must not feel obliged to drink from the cup as receiving the bread alone is sufficient for full Communion. As an alternative, people may wish to take hold of the chalice and then hand it back without drinking from it as a symbolic reception of the wine.
3. The practice of intinction (dipping the wafer in the wine) is discouraged. Research suggests that this is more likely to introduce the spread of bacteria through the wine than would the process of sipping and wiping.
4. Additional purificators will be available for the chalice assistants to exchange during the Distribution so that they are wiping with a clean cloth.
5. Extra care will be taken with the cleaning of the Communion vessels after the service.
6. Parishioners who are experiencing flu symptoms are encouraged to remain at home to reduce the risk of spreading the virus in our public environment. Should your absence be extended, please advise the Cathedral Office and Home Communion can be brought to you.
We encourage people to take good care and thought for others not only at the Cathedral but in all your activities and gatherings with others.