How do we strike an appropriate balance between the care of the body and the care of the soul during a pandemic?
During a pandemic there is always some risk of spread and it is important to ensure that people have an awareness that even if their risk is low, it is not “no” risk. Pandemic management strategies to “flatten the curve” require that we take the physical distancing precautions prior to community transmission development. The actions will be most effective when the population feels that they are least necessary. Too early is better than too late in this case.
Ideally, given that the spread of this virus occurs during a long (14 day minimum) asymptomatic period, everyone should be wearing a surgical mask while out in public to protect others. Frequent hand washing or sanitizing is also a must. This will decrease the overall risk of transmission by decreasing the viral particle load in the environment. These should be the standard measures taken every year during flu season and at all times that someone with respiratory symptoms has to go out in public. The expectations of schools and employers need to change to allow those who are sick to study or work from home. Hopefully, this lesson will be well-learned during this pandemic and result in positive changes to public health going forward.
Speaking specifically of the risk associated with the faithful attending Mass, I want to point out some steps to limit contact; foregoing the Sign of Peace, not receiving Communion from the common Chalice, not hand holding during the Our Father. Another option for risk management would be to add a Masses at each parish for the elderly to attend without interaction with children and adults with a higher risk of transmission. This would function to decrease the crowding at Mass and protect the vulnerable in a particular way.
If essential businesses, such as grocery stores are able to maintain their services to nourish the body, then the Church should be able to offer solutions that can safely nourish the soul. Limiting occupancy of the Church to ensure that appropriate physical distancing is created, hand sanitization upon entry, exit and as required during attendance would be a good start. Those with symptoms, exposure, or travel history would not be able to attend, but should have access to Confession, Anointing, and Viaticum from Priests with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Many dioceses have cancelled Mass and closed the Churches for private prayer and Adoration. While I recognize the necessity for decreasing
transmission, I also believe that this can be done effectively while allowing the faithful to make a visit to Adoration, or the Sacrament of Reconciliation with physical distancing in mind.
Sincerely,
Dr. Martin Owen MD, CCFP
North American Representative FIAMC
World Catholic Medical Association
