MANILA, December 7, 2009—The Archdiocese of Manila recently issued a circular that reminds all the parish priests, shrine rectors, chaplains, and other parish coordinators to wash their hands and respect the Sacred Host during the Eucharistic celebrations.

“Priests celebrating the mass and distributing communion should see to it that their hands are clean because these will handle the Sacred Host. The hands should also be free of any element (dirt or substances that can be passed on to others through the Sacred Host),” it stated.

Fr. Genaro Diwa, Head of the Ministry for Liturgical Affairs, said that these reminders are intended to prevent the transmission of diseases through human contact.

He also said that the Sacred Host must be respected and be treated with dignity.

The same Circular also suggested that the “Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion” should wash their hands possibly with soap and water/sanitizer lotion or gel, however, “it should not be done as if this becomes an added liturgical action with the celebration of the Mass.”

It also recommended that celebrants may assume the “praying position” of hands throughout the duration of the Mass to avoid dirt and possible germs.

“It is also advised that they do not handle money at any time during the Mass or after they have washed their hands. As much as possible they should not also touch their hair or faces, again, actions which a praying position can prevent,” the Circular said.

Diwa said that following these recommendations will improve spiritual closeness of the clergies with the ministry.

“We are sure that by doing so we will enhance further our spiritual affinity with the ministry while at the same being witnesses to the faithful of the proper respect and honor that we should all accord the Sacred Host,” he said. (Kate Laceda)