There have been huge shifts in the way people worship during COVID-19, from virtual services to drive-in services.
The latter started in the Quad Counties after provincial officials relaxed restrictions May 1.
A spokesperson for the Diocese of Antigonish spokesperson and the pastor at St. Ninian Cathedral Parish in Antigonish says that doesn’t solve their biggest problem- public health restrictions involving physical distancing mean priests can’t hand out communion.
Father Donald MacGillivray tells The Hawk none of the temporary solutions allow Catholics to take part in one of the most fundamental practices of their faith.
“A mass is always with communion- that is the crux of what happens in the eucharist,” he says. “The ones that this is important to, this is very difficult, very trying, and so the ways (church services are) being provided, people are appreciating that they’re able to at least get that.”
MacGillivray says they’re eagerly anticipating when public health and physical distancing standards are reduced enough that they can resume full Catholic Mass with communion.
