PROVIDENCE (NBC) — The flu epidemic has changed the way some churches are performing services.
At St. Sebastian Church in Providence, Rhode Island a few things are different here for Sunday mass.
"To refrain from shaking hands during rite of peace, I invited them to just turn and verbally exchange a greeting," says Monsignor John Darcy.
Monsignor Darcy says they're not taking any chances when it comes to keeping people healthy.
"Until this cold and flu season has abated, the reception of the blood of Christ through the chalice will be postponed," he adds.
The bishop recommends that people who have flu symptoms or other illnesses stay away from mass until feeling better.