We have tried to bend over backwards to accommodate those with celiac disease. We use a host for them that is low gluten, but for the validity of the sacrament, the host does have some gluten.
Some cannot tolerate even that and become ill if they consume any amount of glutton.
But another solution is to give them the Precious Blood only (which of course is the Risen Lord, whole and complete).
But what about the serious alcoholic where this might catapult that person back to serious drinking?
Of course there is “mustum” which is wine that has its alcohol content removed. It taste horrible, but many alcoholic priests use it. Do we provide this for the laity too? And if and when the common chalice is returned to the laity to quick start another epidemic/pandemic, do we as a matter of course offer mustum for alcoholic parishioners who want both forms of the One Christ?
Just how hospitable must we be to those who have health and addiction issues when it comes to bread and wine which then become Bread and Wine?
2 comments:
Father-
As phrased, your question is how hospitable "must" we be. I think the answer depends on whether Canon 920 / the Easter obligation to receive Holy Communion can be entirely dispensed for individuals. If it can be dispensed, then it appears that such hospitality is not absolutely required. If the obligation cannot be dispensed, then I would think some hospitality must be provided. What form that accommodation takes is another issue.
FWIW, I have Celiac disease.
Don’t forget the poor lame Catholics who can’t kneel or stick out their tongues.
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