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Movements & -isms

Transubstantiation

The Catholic doctrine that at consecration the substance of the bread and wine becomes the body and blood of Christ, while the appearances remain.

Not To Be Confused With

Transubstantiation (substance changes, accidents remain — a specific philosophical account) is the Catholic explanation; Lutherans hold sacramental union, the Reformed a spiritual real presence, and memorialism denies any change. All but the last affirm “real presence.”

Defined at the Fourth Lateran Council (1215) and Trent, using Aristotelian categories of substance and accident. It is one explanation of real presence, not a synonym for it — presented here in the Catholic Church's own voice.

Related Terms

Transubstantiation — Definition | Theologos Media