For a non-Catholic, what is "transubstantiation"? Is my "heart" the same thing as my soul? I'm about to have my sixth Caesarean section. My doctor wants me to undergo a tubal ligation. Is this licit?

Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.

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Q1: I'm a non-Catholic believer. Could you please explain the doctrine of transubstantiation, and why non-Catholics cannot receive the Eucharist?

Q2: Is my "heart" my soul?

Q3: My husband and I were introduced to NFP during our pre-marriage classes. It has helped us to grow in faith over the years. I am pregnant now with our fifth baby, and will have my fifth Caesarean section in November. My doctor asked me if I would like to do a tubal this time, as she strongly advises in her medical opinion that I should not become pregnant a sixth time. She even sugggested I talk with a priest to see if it would ever be permissible for medical reasons. Is it ever permissible to get your tubes tied or is it always a serious sin no matter what the reason?

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Resources mentioned this week:

Catechism of the Catholic Church

Scott Hahn's Conversion Story

Jeff Cavins' Conversion Story

TOB 1 Course Online

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Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals.

Featuring music by Mike Mangione.

Produced by Sounder and Key.