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When we contacted the Archdiocese of Hartford to ask for permission to use
an alternative host, we were told that it was not permitted because (and I
quote), "The essence of the Lord is in the gluten."  The absurdity of it!
That the Lord could be contained in a molecule of protein, or require its
presence in order to come among us!  This summer, a letter was sent from
the Archbishop to all the parishes specifically forbidding the use of low-
gluten or alternative hosts.  Only wheat *with* gluten is to be considered
valid matter.  Priests are to provide a "clean" chalice to those of us with
CD, even if the Precious Blood is not offered to the congregation as a
whole.  The priests in our parish do this.  However, I know of priests who
have refused to do this, or who make the whole process so awkward that
celiacs in their parishes just don't go to Communion at all.  Even though I
am able to receive Communion this way, it feels like something is missing,
and I have to go up on the altar by myself.  I miss going with my family.
I have to say that of all the losses CD entails, this is the most painful
for me.  My heart goes out to that little girl and her family.

Bobbie