March 25, 2025

Lab results indicate natural, not miraculous, causes for change to host at southern Indiana parish

Criterion staff report

A biochemical analysis of a host from St. Anthony Church in Morris that was displaying red discoloration in February revealed the presence of a common bacteria found on all humans. No presence of human blood was discovered.

A March 24 statement from the archdiocese said the host had fallen out of a Mass kit used at the parish, and when it was discovered, red spots were present.

Following a policy established by the Holy See, the host was submitted for professional, biochemical analysis at a local laboratory. The results indicate the presence of fungus and three different species of bacteria, all of which are commonly found on human hands.

Throughout the history of the Catholic Church, there have been well-documented miracles and apparitions. Those approved by the Church for acceptance by the faithful have undergone a thorough and careful review process, the archdiocese noted. †

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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