In Catholic tradition, what is the term for the belief that the bread and wine used in the Eucharist actually become the body and blood of Jesus Christ?

The word Psalms instantly summons images of prayerful gatherings and a tradition that resonates from ancient temples to today’s vibrant neighborhoods.

 

Meaning “song” in Greek, the Psalms have served generations as a spiritual soundtrack, spanning emotions from anguish to exultation.

 

Locally, congregations—from Brooklyn synagogues to downtown Chicago parishes—bring these texts to life each week, uniting voices across thousands of years.

 

This poetic collection, divided into five books, reflects on themes like lament, triumph, exile, and restoration, with authors as diverse as King David, Solomon, Asaph, and the Sons of Korah.

 

This July, an Austin multi-faith concert drew crowds with fresh musical interpretations, showing the Psalms’ ongoing relevance.

 

During challenging times, such as the pandemic, local groups found comfort and connection in the honesty of these verses.

 

From interfaith vigils to Bible studies, the Psalms remain the living, unifying heart of communities in 2025.

On August 15, 2025, Catholics around the globe will honor the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a feast rooted in faith and hope.

 

Declared a dogma by Pope Pius XII in 1950, the Assumption celebrates Mary's being taken up body and soul into heaven, symbolizing renewal after World War II.

 

This belief, though not detailed in Scripture, reflects longstanding Christian traditions and is embraced across Catholic and Orthodox communities.

 

Mary’s unique role as the Mother of God, her Immaculate Conception, and her sinless life make the Assumption a fitting part of her story.

 

Locally, parishes like St. Ann Catholic Church in Florence, South Carolina, and events like Marian Days in Missouri gather diverse believers in celebration.

 

The Assumption inspires hope, offering a vision of eternal life and unity amidst today’s uncertainties.

Adapting to Catholic teachings on birth control brought unexpected challenges, especially as I embraced Natural Family Planning (NFP) as a way of life.

 

Tracking fertility, practicing abstinence, and aligning our marriage with these rhythms proved much more demanding than anticipated, particularly as we welcomed our seven children.

 

The emotional toll sometimes led to frustration and strained communication with my husband as we navigated each phase together.

 

However, these struggles gradually became opportunities for deeper intimacy and growth.

 

Through open dialogue, mutual support, and faith in God’s plan, we discovered a supportive community, especially at local events like “Love Beyond Measure” in Royal Oak.

 

NFP evolved from a challenge into a shared journey—fostering respect, responsibility, and a more profound connection in our marriage and faith.

 

Transubstantiation.