Investigation underway after host appears to bleed following communion

KEARNS, UT - The Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City is investigating an event that some are calling a miracle that occurred inside the Saint Xavier church in Kearns, Utah.

Last week, a host was returned to the father overseeing the service during the Holy Communion.

A host is the small wafer handed out during communion.

The father put the host in a glass of water near the head of the church. Typically it will dissolve in a few minutes.

However, three days later, members of the church say that the host was still floating and appeared to be bleeding.

Word spread, leading the church to become filled with people.

For a short time, the host was on display.

Now, the Salt Lake City Diocese has taken possession of the host, and has appointed a committee to look into the incident.

The head of the committee, Monsignor M. Francis Mannion, issued a statement:

"Recently, reports of a bleeding host at St. Francis Xavier Church in Kearns have been circulating within the diocese. Monsignor Colin F. Bircumshaw, Diocesan Administrator, has appointed an ad hoc committee of individuals with various backgrounds to investigate the matter. The work of the committee is now underway. The results will be made public.

The host is now in the custody of the Diocesan Administrator. Contrary to rumor, there are NO current plans for public exposition or adoration.

Whatever the outcome of the investigation, we can use this time to renew our faith and devotion in the greatest miracle -- the Real Presence of Jesus Christ that takes place at every Mass.

Msgr. M. Francis Mannion

Committee Chair"

According to FOX 13 Salt Lake City, the results of the investigation will be made public when it is complete.