The case of an autistic girl who was refused Holy Communion could have been avoided, the Autism Advisory Council said on Saturday.
The incident was sparked by young Ella Agius, whose condition means that at times she is unable to swallow.
On the big day last June, the child refused to be administered the Eucharist and the Burmarrad parish priest felt this was reason enough not to officially certify Ella as having received Holy Communion. The issue was resolved after the intervention of Archbishop Charles Scicluna.
“While the Archbishop’s actions can be seen as a measure to save the day, the council would much rather see entities and persons involved seize the day before something similar happens again, rather than save the day in a blaze of media flurry afterwards,” the council said in a statement disseminated through the Family Ministry.
Systems are already in place, administered by the Curia, to make sure families have the possibility of receiving support to ensure catechism and Mass, as well as preparation for and receiving First Holy Communion. This is managed by dedicated volunteers, who liaise with parishes and families, and who have also been trained by the Vatican from…
