The Vatican stated on Saturday that the bread used for the Eucharist could not be entirely gluten free, although “low gluten” bread was allowable. GMOs, on the other hand, are perfectly acceptable for the Host. This declaration was prompted by a need perceived by Cardinal Robert Sarah of the Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments because Eucharistic bread and wine can be bought in a variety of places, including the internet. Furthermore, in a letter last month to bishops, Sarah noted that the bread should be made by people “distinguished by their integrity,” and should not contain either fruit or sugar (this being a “grave abuse”). The wine also must be of distinguished provenance, and juice should not be used as a substitute. Those who cannot tolerate alcohol could drink mustum, a thick, non-fermented grape juice. What those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance are supposed to do is anyone’s guess.
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People with Celiac disease have to eat gluten free as a way to stay alive. It’s an autoimmune disease and the only available medical treatment is to eat gluten free. 1 out of 100 Canadians live with Celiac.
[Paula – In the future, please give your first and last names. – ed.]
In Quebec, the leftover pieces are sold in depanneurs (convenience stores) as snacks.
So well said, Bill. I often picture Jesus throwing his hands up in the air saying, “They’re getting it all wrong, that’s not what I meant! ” WWJD really has neaning and sadly it is not being exercised with such nitpicking. I am a cradle Catholic and I love my church, meaning the body of Christ that is the people themselves, but abhor the petty beauracracy that are so small minded and haughty. Thanks for your wise comment.
In reference to Sue Riediger’s comment. The church’s polemical arguments against the Pharisees has included lies. To the Pharisees, and to modern day Jews, the preservation of life takes priority over ritual. That is why the gospel reading on March 26, 2017 (John 9:1-41) is a lie. Because of the increased risk of accidental death, no trained Pharisee would delay treating blindness for a day because it is the sabbath.
What happens these days at GC is beyond my direct knowledge, but your point could well be apposite. I can imagine all kinds of things that render impossible X or Y. Grace and peace.