Celiac Disease and Low-Gluten Hosts

The Catholic Church desires that all the faithful who are properly disposed be able to receive Holy Communion. For those who suffer from celiac disease or another medical condition affecting the consumption of gluten, ecclesiastically approved low-gluten hosts are available in our parishes when requested. Those who cannot receive even a low-gluten host may receive Holy Communion under the species of wine alone.

Parishioners who require a low-gluten host on a regular basis should speak with their pastor, who has the authority to make this accommodation. Visitors who require a low-gluten host are encouraged to notify the priest celebrant before Mass.

Because gluten-free hosts are invalid matter for the Eucharist, they may never be used for the celebration of Mass. In accordance with diocesan policy, parishes are expected to maintain a supply of approved low-gluten hosts for those who need them; parishioners may not supply their own low-gluten hosts.

Questions may be directed to the Office of the Vicar General at 207-773-6471 or [email protected].