H1N1 at Church

One Atlanta church is taking steps to help protect parishioners from swine flu.

Holy Spirit Catholic Church is out with a new list of precautions designed to prevent the possible spread of the H1N1 virus among its congregation.

The precautions involve limits to hand-holding and changes to Communion.

Monsignor Edward Dillon sent out an e-mail to parishioners last week.

"Principle among the recommendations is that if you are feeling ill, stay home," Monsignor Dillon wrote. "You are not obligated to attend Mass if you are feeling ill. The same with your children, whether it be Mass, Religious Education or school."

During Mass on Sunday Monsignor Dillon reminded parishioners to expect changes.

"If someone is reluctant to shake your hand, don't be offended by it," Monsignor Dillon said.

The precautions include encouraging parishioners to receive Communion in their hands instead of on their tongues.

The church will continue to allow parishioners to receive the Chalice.

As always, ministers will take special precautions, which include wiping the rim with a cloth and turning the cup after each sip.

"During Saturday Mass, the number of people receiving the Chalice was down, which was fine, because they received Communion with the Host anyway," Monsignor Dillon said.

During the Lord's Prayer, parishioners are now encouraged to hold hands with family members only.

And at the Sign of Peace, it's recommended that they bow or share a verbal greeting instead of shaking hands.

"You do feel funny if you're coughing and don't want to shake hands with somebody," said parishioner Sissy Bradford. "Sometimes people feel offended, but I think it's a great idea."

The Catholic Archdiocese of Atlanta suggests that anyone who's been sick should limit contact with others during Mass.

The CDC recommends that every faith follow the same guidelines to keep the H1N1 virus from spreading.

Health officials say it's best to avoid shaking hands, holding hands and sharing communal cups during worship services.