Communion wine now available in a packet

The blood of Christ is now being served in a “convenient” plastic-wrapped cup in a move that takes the phrase ‘mass production’ quite literally.

The photo shows a small amount of wine complete with a piece of wafer (Photo: Imgur)

A picture has emerged online showing a cup of prepackaged wine complete with a piece of wafer that an unknown worshiper recently received at Communion.

The photo has been viewed online over 2.5 million times.

The novelty has been met with scorn by some who view it as a degradation of the important Catholic rite, while others see it as a hygienic and thoroughly modern way of receiving Communion.

One commentator on Reddit, the viral news forum, said: “Catholics believe that the Eucharist is the body of Christ, and treat it with that respect. Putting it in a plastic container seems disrespectful. Similar to how you wouldn’t put your father’s ashes in a ziploc bag.”

But another pointed to its ability to be used in disaster areas where access to traditional Communion wine and bread is difficult:

“Can someone explain what’s wrong with this? I thought the prepackaged ones were for disaster relief, where getting tons of supplies to destroyed areas would be difficult.”

However, the presence of a potentially tricky foil lid on the package could work against its apparent convenience. A commentator warned: “My priest seems a little bit clumsy. It would end in tears, I assure you.”