Pope says 'NO' to gluten free. But what about parishioners with celiac disease?

Can parishoners take only the Blood of Christ?

Pope Francis has reminded priests that gluten-free is not the way to go when it comes to communion. The news is a refreshing dose of common sense for those who recognize that the gluten-free fad is ridiculous, but it's a genuine concern for the small segment of the Catholics with celiac disease, which is a serious disease.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) -- Pope Francis has reminded his priests they are to use quality products for communion, including wafers made with wheat and proper wine. In a letter sent to the bishops, the Pope explicitly forbade the use of gluten-free alternatives. The letter was sent on the pope's behalf by Cardinal Robert Sarah.

The letter says: "The bread used in the celebration of the Most Holy Eucharistic Sacrifice must be unleavened, purely of wheat, and recently made so that there is no danger of decomposition.

"It follows therefore that bread made from another substance, even if it is grain, or if it is mixed with another substance different from wheat to such an extent that it would not commonly be considered wheat bread, does not constitute valid matter.

"Hosts that are completely gluten-free are invalid matter for the celebration of the Eucharist."

Most parishes still source their communion from religious communities, but a small number have resorted to using supplies purchased online or even in specialty stores. The use of such items is permitted, but it is the responsibility of the priest to ensure they are of good quality.

Over the past decade, demand has grown for gluten-free products. The demand has been fueled by a fad and the assumption that gluten is bad for people. Of course, such a broad conclusion is the product of pseudoscience, and like most such advice can be bad for people.

Gluten is a naturally occurring protein that is found in wheat, rye, and barley. It is important to helping people achieve a sensation of being full and satisfied. It is also known for giving dough its elastic property.

A small segment of the population must avoid gluten products. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that impacts about one percent of all people worldwide. At this rate, there are probably a few to several people in each parish who suffer from this ailment.

Generally, these people can suffer even if they consume a small amount of gluten. While the effects may not seem noticeable or apparent, any harm is too much.

For such individuals, the Church in the United States allows for the use of gluten free hosts, however this may change in light of the pope's letter. Any changes in practice may take time to develop as bishops work out what is appropriate in the wake of the papal directive.

To be safe, under such extraordinary circumstances parishioners are permitted to receive communion under the species of the wine alone. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the whole of Christ is present in each of the two species (CCC1390).