By Teghan Simonton
Trib Total Media
As fears over the coronavirus grow, the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh announced Monday it will suspend the distribution of wine during communion.
Bishop David Zubik announced precautions in the diocese Monday to take effect immediately.
Across the diocese, the distribution of wine is temporarily suspended. Additional precautions include the halting of handshakes and physical contact during the exchange of the Sign of the Peace.
Holy water fonts will be cleaned and drained on a weekly basis, and those who feel ill are not obligated to attend Sunday Mass.
“I am instituting precautions that will serve as preventative steps to help our faith community, and the region as a whole, stay healthy,” Zubik said in a statement. “That is my primary focus.”
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