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Can I Miss Mass Because of the Flu Going Around?

Question:

Can I miss Mass because of the flu going around? My husband and I are in the at-risk age and are worried about receiving communion from someone’s hands.

Answer:

Missing Mass due to serious health concerns is considered a legitimate reason.

You stated that your fear is interaction with the hands of the minister of communion.  You could attend Mass and make a spiritual communion instead of receiving communion. You can also politely smile and express a verbal sign of peace instead of shaking hands.

I always recommend people discuss their health and the risks of attending Mass with their medical doctor and make a prudential judgment.

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