Published: Sunday, 2nd August, 2009 8:00am

Shaking hands is banned in church

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CATHOLICS in the Reading area have been banned from taking wine during Holy Communion or exchanging the traditional sign of peace at Mass under dramatic anti-swine flu measures.

Worshippers arriving for Mass on Sunday in all churches covered by the Portsmouth Catholic diocese were handed a letter from Bishop Crispian Hollis spelling out the regulations, which include Holy Communion being distributed in the hand only, and priests and ministers using hand sanitiser gel before and afterwards.

Bishop Crispian wrote: "These regulations will remain in place until further notice.

"It is hoped that the reasons for this temporary policy will be understood and appreciated.

"They have been made out of particular pastoral concern for the vulnerable, namely the elderly, children and those with underlying health problems."

Reading's senior Catholic clergyman Monsignor John Nelson leads the 900-strong congregation at the English Martyrs church in Liebenrood Road.

Father John said: "I think I got about two people commenting off-hand after last Sunday's services, but the vast majority understand that it is a sensible precaution to take for the foreseeable future but not forever.

"This is a temporary change to allow us to protect the more vulnerable."

Christians have shared bread and wine for 2,000 years since Jesus used them as symbols of his body and blood.

Father John said that for Catholics, receiving the bread alone is sufficient and for many non-British worshippers, bowing rather than shaking hands as the sign of peace is the norm.

He added: "I think the government idea of having a 'flu friend' is a great idea but it is a pity you have to say that, because surely most people should have someone.

"Perhaps one of the positive things is that people will be more aware of the needs of other people near them."

Church of England recommendations include thimble-sized individual cups or the African custom of dipping bread in the wine.

Father John Hudson of St Matthew's in Southcote said: "I'm sure the parishioners will be understanding; the church is being sensible for our wellbeing."

Reading's Rural Dean, Canon Brian Shenton, from the Minster Church of St Mary, said his parish is "absolutely endorsing" the proposal and he had not expected any objections because "an element of understanding comes as first nature to a Christian".

Father John Hudson, of St Matthew's Church, Southcote, said the guidance is "very clear, very positive and very gentle" for Christians nationwide, adding that the emphasis should still be on praying for people who have succumbed to the virus.

Do you think it is a good idea? Call Rose Harland on 0118 955 3306.

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