Decree Restoring Distribution of the Precious Blood at Mass

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, extraordinary measures were taken to protect the health and well-being of the faithful from infection. While the diocese was one of the last to suspend the public celebration of the Mass and one of the first to resume, distribution of the Precious Blood of Jesus continued to be suspended out of an abundance of caution.

I am pleased to decree that beginning on Holy Thursday, April 6, 2023; parishes may resume the distribution of the Precious Blood during the celebration of Mass. Parishioners may choose to receive under one or both species. When the faithful receive Holy Communion under the form of either bread or wine, they receive the fullness of Jesus' Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. Those who receive under only one species are not deprived in any way of the fullness of Holy Communion.

Since the distribution of the Precious Blood has been suspended for a long time, pastors and administrators must ensure that Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are trained in the proper procedures for distributing Holy Communion under both species. Parishes are asked to submit a list of Extraordinary Ministers to the Office of the Chancellor for approval. As a reminder, those who may serve as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion must meet the following requirements:

• Fully initiated Catholic (Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist) who regularly share in the Eucharist;
• If married, in a valid sacramental marriage;
• Committed to the faith, devoted to the Eucharist and respected in the community; and
• Capable of adhering to the procedures for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

Given at the curia in Fairbanks, Alaska, on 15 March 2023.

Archbishop Andrew E. Bellisario, C.M.
Apostolic Administrator of Fairbanks

Ms. Carolyn J. Dukes
Chancellor