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Critics of Catholicism/Transubstantiation
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Question
The Catholic church claims that a miracle turns the communion wafer into Christ's body. But the wafer does not change. In the bible, every miracle produced phyical change. The parting of the Red Sea, the manna in the desert, the water from a rock, etc. So, why doesn't the wafer or wine change?
Hi John.
I certainly cannot do full justice to such a question, as countless volumes have been, and continue to be, written on the subject...all of which should be considered less than perfect with our limited ability as humans to explain such mysteries/miracles.
I think the only justice I can do for a reply is to refer you to the article from the Catholic Encyclopedia, which I hope you'll find quite illuminating:
http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05573a.htm
You might start by clicking on the Transubstantiation link at the top of it, which will "jump you down" to the logic behind it's definition.
The entire article, though, is wonderful - and includes a history of the development of it's explanation.
Peace and Blessings, John.
Rick.
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Answers by Expert:
Rick Jackson
Expertise
I can help clarify fact vs. fiction regarding the teachings of the Catholic Faith. I believe that Catholicism is the best representation of the Historic Christian Faith and that this can be shown with Scripture, reason and history.
I am an ecumenical apologist. I'm not interested in telling non-Catholics why they are wrong, but am happy to explain and confirm what we believe and why we; from Scripture, reason and history.
There are some issues where I will have to politely agree to disagree with my non-Catholic brother in Christ, however there is so much that we share in common, I'd prefer to clarify those first. :)
Experience
Experience in the area
As a former Protestant (Church of the Nazarene) I came to the faith by recognizing, after lengthy study, that Catholocism is the best representation of the Historic Christian Faith.
Very interested in "ecumenical apologetics", and have started a website pursuing it: www.catholictruths.com
Organizations
Active member/supporter and webservant:
Biblical Archaeology Society | Diocese of Columbus Catholic Record Society | St. Gabriel Radio | Catholic Truths
Active member and/or supporter:
Catholic Answers | EWTN | Dead Theologians Society
Publications
Catholic Truths
Education/Credentials
Some College. Received religious instruction by the Dominicans. Have attended several "seminars" (or viewed via DVD) by Scott Hahn, Patrick Madrid and other apologists.
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