They are supposed to be treated with reverence because of their scope; however, it is just bread. Would you mishandle a loaf of bread that is a gift for someone?I have a question as to the handling of unconsecrated hosts. Before Mass, I observed an altar server picking the hosts up one at a time and putting them into a ciborium. Is he supposed to do this, or since the hosts were unconsecrated, does it matter?
(other than sanitary reasons)
Thanks!
As described by the OP, if anything, there would seem to be over-careful handling - not mishandling - of the unconsecrated hosts – “one at a time.” Would seemingly be more sanitary and practical if the hosts were just poured into the ciborium from the bag or jar in which they’re stored.They are supposed to be treated with reverence because of their scope; however, it is just bread. Would you mishandle a loaf of bread that is a gift for someone?
I neglected to specify that he was using his bare hands. That’s where my concern is.As described by the OP, if anything, there would seem to be over-careful handling - not mishandling - of the unconsecrated hosts – “one at a time.” Would seemingly be more sanitary and practical if the hosts were just poured into the ciborium from the bag or jar in which they’re stored.
Again, he’s supposed to wash his hands, so not a big deal. Assume that he did unless you have information otherwise.I neglected to specify that he was using his bare hands. That’s where my concern is.
Pouring unconsecrated hosts from a bag or a jar could result in having lots of crumbs and broken pieces in the ciborium and I think that could and should be avoided. I believe that it is best to pick up a handful and count them, discarding broken pieces and elliminating much of the crumbs. Of course, the sacristan should wash hands first. However, some unconsecrated hosts are packaged in single stacked tubular packages of 100 and these are more easily counted poured from the wrapping.As described by the OP, if anything, there would seem to be over-careful handling - not mishandling - of the unconsecrated hosts – “one at a time.” Would seemingly be more sanitary and practical if the hosts were just poured into the ciborium from the bag or jar in which they’re stored.
They are probably trying to count them…I have a question as to the handling of unconsecrated hosts. Before Mass, I observed an altar server picking the hosts up one at a time and putting them into a ciborium. Is he supposed to do this, or since the hosts were unconsecrated, does it matter?
(other than sanitary reasons)
Thanks!