Reverence for the Blessed Sacrament: Fragments.

Too scrupulous?

Reading Fr. Z and Fr. Mark of Vultus Christi, I noticed both priests have posts concerning reverence for the Eucharistic species.  In one case a priest asks a question of Fr. Z concerning fragments of the Eucharist left on the corporal.  I always wonder why priests would seek clarification of these matters online rather than approach their bishop, pastor or superior of their place, and/or their spiritual director?  After all, that is the ordinary chain of command in their obedience.  In another post on WDTPRS, a newly ordained priest asked if the pastor of the place he is assigned had the right to censor his homilies.  You bet he does - within reason - but if there is a real problem, an abuse of power, etc., the priest should bring his concerns to the chancery or directly to the bishop.  But I digress.  Such issues are instructive for the ordinary Catholic and it is another reason why enjoy reading Fr. Z.
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That said, Fr. Z's questioner reminded me of a situation I noted at my own parish.  I mentioned before that I am the last person at adoration in our parish, and so I must repose the Blessed Sacrament - I would rather not do this, but no one else is available.  Nearly every week I notice the corporal remains on the altar outside of Mass - some weeks there are red stains from the precious blood - or wine, I have no way of knowing which came first - as well as the occasional crumb(s).  The same corporal usually remains on the altar week after week.  The priest uses an oversized host - so we know how minute fragments scatter.  I was told not to worry because unless the fragments resemble actual bread, they are of no concern.  This in a day when we can view and study micron particles... 
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Now as a lay person I can see why I would bring these concerns to a priest - only to be regarded as overly scrupulous and a busy-body - so why bother?  Nevertheless, in the monastery I was always taught the corporal should be removed from a properly dressed altar after Mass.  (During exposition a properly cleaned corporal is used.)  Nevertheless, at least one bishop (before he was consecrated bishop) has offered Mass at my parish - during the week and on a weekend or two, while the pastor was away - and he too left the corporal on the altar.  I realize some things are just out of a lay-person's hands.
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Today is my adoration day, so I'll bring these matters to Our Lord, "who can do infinitely more than I can ask or imagine."  In the meantime, check out Fr. Z's post and then read Fr. Mark's at Vultus Christi.  Fr. Mark departs from his usual meditations and homililetics, asking serious questions concerning the 2004 document, The Instruction Redemptionis Sacramentum, On certain matters to be observed or to be avoided regarding the Most Holy Eucharist.  Once again one might ask why his concern is not brought to the attention of his bishop or a higher authority, but I think the question is more or less rhetorical and meant for our instruction.
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