In the 1990s, U.S. Catholic bishops noted the widespread use of artificial birth control among Catholic couples, citing poor teaching on the issue, and it was declared immoral in a 1968 papal encyclical. Joseph Stoutzenberger, drawing from his research, argues for critical thinking in Catholic education, suggesting that liberation involves questioning and analyzing beliefs, encouraging a deeper understanding of Catholicism aligned with Jesus’s teachings.
Author Archives: joestoutzenberger
Roots and Wings
Joseph Stoutzenberger reflects on the division within Catholicism since Vatican Council II, highlighting contrasting views on change and tradition among clergy and congregants. Pope Francis seeks to bridge these divides by promoting both rootedness in faith and responsiveness to contemporary issues. The ongoing tension over moral teachings remains unresolved, challenging unity.
When the Saints Go Marching In
Joseph Stoutzenberger reflects on the negative focus of local news, contrasting it with the myriad of kindnesses often overlooked. He highlights the virtues celebrated in Catholicism, emphasizing love, kindness, and patience. Despite negative discourse among some Catholics, he advocates for embodying the fruits of the Holy Spirit to foster compassion in communities.
Who Wears the Pants in the Family?
A newly ordained priest’s dictatorial decree banning women in pants from the sanctuary underscores a troubling trend of clericalism within the Church. These outdated views reflect a more profound fear of women asserting authority, revealing an institutional struggle with gender dynamics—the push for inclusivity clashes dramatically with his repressive stance.
If God Is Love…
by Joseph Stoutzenberger When I was a child, I loved movies. As a paperboy, if I paid my bill in full by 10:00 Saturday morning I received a pass to our local movie theater. (My small home town had only one theater.) I attended many Saturday matinees. I took it to heart when a characterContinue reading “If God Is Love…”
Seeing the Bigger Picture
The author reflects on two distinct funerals attended recently, one traditional Catholic and the other held at a country club. Both services honored the deceased’s impact on the community but varied in spiritual connection. The Catholic liturgy provided a profound sense of belonging to a universal story, emphasizing gratitude and ongoing presence beyond death.
Thank God for the Blessed Mother
by Joseph Stoutzenberger The beginning of the Nicene Creed, recited by Catholics at Mass, refers to God as “the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth.” The creed was composed by bishops called together in 325 by the non-Christian Roman emperor of the time, Constantine. He wanted Christians who were fighting among themselves to resolveContinue reading “Thank God for the Blessed Mother”
Is the Church Worth Saving?
The author reflects on friends who abandon religion, particularly former Catholics critical of the church. Despite flaws, many inspired by their faith have made significant contributions, like Abbe de l’Epee, who advanced education for the deaf, and the charity work of Frederic Ozanam and Catholic nuns, highlighting the positive impact of faith-driven actions.
St. Francis of Assisi and Nature
by Joseph Stoutzenberger A few years ago, a publisher approached me about writing a book about Francis of Assisi and nature. I knew Francis is associated with love of creation and is the patron saint of the environment. His statues with birds on his shoulder and other animals at his feet in gardens everywhere attestContinue reading “St. Francis of Assisi and Nature”
Know Thyself
by Joseph Stoutzenberger A professor of mine at Temple University, David Harrington Watt, insisted that it is important in scholarship to let readers know who we are and what has influenced the positions that we are expressing. In my writing, I have always stayed away from talking about myself. If I wrote about, for instance,Continue reading “Know Thyself”
Joseph Stoutzenberger 