SAN ANTONIO – Sunday marks the first day of Advent, the first of four Sundays before Christmas.
It is a special occasion for some because it is the first time at San Fernando Cathedral that many Catholics in San Antonio are being offered the full Blood of Christ Communion during mass since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s nice to be getting back into normal and doing the old stuff we used to do back in pre-COVID,” said church member, Joshua Rodriguez.
He and others took out the time to describe what it’s like being part of the traditional practice after it was on pause for years due to COVID-19 health concerns.
The Archbishop of San Antonio, Gustavo Garcia-Siller, said medical research indicates it is safe to carry out the communion practice again. “It’s an adjustment, even for us to reorganize ourselves and always with a freedom for those who wish to receive it,” Archbishop Garcia-Siller said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 86% of people in Bexar County have received at least one COVID-19 vaccination shot.
“In Advent, we are waiting for Christmas and so what a great time to get our communities preparing to receive the body and blood of Christ,” Archbishop Garcia-Siller said.
Church leaders said anyone planning to attend future mass services should know participating in the full communion is an option and not a requirement.