In response to the apparent seriousness of the flu season, the Most Rev. Mark L. Bartchak, Bishop of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, issued temporary guidelines involving Holy Communion and the sign of peace at all Masses in the Diocese.

Bishop Bartchak has directed that the Precious Blood not be distributed under any form in the Diocese. It is the belief of the Catholic Church that the whole Body of Christ is present under either form of consecrated bread or wine. Reception of Holy Communion on the hand is encouraged, but reception on the tongue may not be denied. Additionally, the Bishop has instructed that handshakes during the sign of peace not be exchanged. Instead, a genuine nod of the head with eye contact to others is encouraged.     

The temporary guidelines will be followed until the evening Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday, March 28, 2013.