Weekly Record

19 July 2009

From what I have heard this week swine flu seems to have reached some of our schools on Merseyside and the Wirral and it looks as though it is likely to spread quite rapidly. This is not meant to cause widespread panic amongst you all but to raise the question as to what measures we take in the Cathedral to limit the risk to those attending services. I enclose some advice that we received from Archbishop Patrick relating to this.

“It would be right and fitting to ensure people know the choices that rest with them when they take part in the Mass as they hear various official reports and advice about Swine 'flu.
Fact: infection from the chalice, as long as it is metal, given the alcohol in the wine consecrated, presents no great risk; but the choice to receive from the chalice rests with the communicant and it must be easy for those who choose not to receive from the chalice to do so gracefully.
Communion received in the hand presents no risks, but communion received on the tongue could put both the communicant and other communicants at risk.
The sign of peace: this seems to carry the greatest risks; it is not obligatory to invite people to share a sign of peace; the sharing need not be a shake of hands, which is the risky element. It is also possible that the risk would be reduced if the exchange, especially if by hand shake, were moved either to the end of penitential rite, or, in light of the Lord's words about being reconciled with one another before we bring our gift to the altar," exchange the sign at end of Prayer of the Faithful.

I hope this is helpful.”

Archbishop Patrick

I think that we do need to make some temporary restrictions here at the Cathedral during this time that the highly infectious flu virus is spreading. Firstly from this weekend we should just wish each other the sign of peace verbally rather than shaking hands. This is to ensure that we act together as a community rather than some shaking hands and some just offering a verbal sign of peace! Secondly I will consult with Archbishop Kelly, the other priests and the Department Heads in the Cathedral as to whether we continue to offer communion under both kinds during this period of risk. (The Lourdes Departure Mass organizers have requested that communion be only available under one kind for their mass this Sunday). Thirdly and perhaps the most obvious point is that if you are feeling unwell or have flu like symptoms you should stay at home.

This Sunday Archbishop Patrick will be presiding at the Lourdes Departure Mass at 3pm. Those of us who are unable to go to Lourdes can still join the pilgrimage in spirit and in prayer from next week.

I enclose one of the prayers of the Lourdes Pilgrimage Association:

O Holy Virgin, in the midst of your days of glory, do not forget the sorrows of this earth. Cast a merciful glance upon those who are suffering, struggling against difficulties, with their lips constantly pressed against life’s bitter cup. Have pity on those who love each and are separated. Have pity on our rebellious hearts. Have pity of our weak faith. Have pity on those we love. Have pity on those who weep, on those who pray, on those who fear. Grant hope and peace to all. Amen.

Canon Anthony O'Brien
Cathedral Dean