The author reflects on a personal experience in a gay bar, paralleling feelings of discomfort with societal perceptions of difference, particularly for sexual minorities and left-handed individuals. Highlighting Pope Francis’ supportive stance, the piece advocates for acceptance and celebration of diverse identities, urging society and the Church to embrace rather than marginalize differences.
Category Archives: Ethics
Strangers or Guests?
The text explores the significance of hospitality in ancient Greek and Hebrew cultures, contrasting it with contemporary American attitudes toward immigration and xenophobia. It highlights the biblical call for compassion towards strangers and emphasizes the contributions of immigrants to American society, urging a more loving response to migrants as a moral imperative.
Consolation vs. Social Justice
Joseph Stoutzenberger reflects on his childhood Catholic faith, filled with rituals and prayers like those to St. Francis and St. Jude. He contrasts this piety with his current struggles to connect with spirituality as an adult, despite recognizing the enduring devotion in others. He finds solace in sacred spaces, valuing prayer’s nuanced presence in life.
Are Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Dirty Words?
Joseph Stoutzenberger reflects on the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in education. He contrasts past efforts to promote DEI with contemporary opposition that argues it’s detrimental. Stoutzenberger highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in enriching education and emphasizes that addressing DEI can foster unity without sacrifice to fairness.
Rest Stop Wisdom
Joseph Stoutzenberger reflects on the importance of brief, encouraging messages found in public spaces, like “You Are Loved.” Highlighting narratives of journeys in literature, he emphasizes the need for compassion and connection among travelers in life. Ultimately, the message “You are loved” serves as a vital reminder for all.
Is Non-Violence Dead?
Joseph Stoutzenberger reflects on the contrast between hopes for non-violence during the “dawning of the age of Aquarius” and the ongoing global conflicts. He cites Gandhi and Jesus as proponents of non-violent resistance, highlighting historical and contemporary examples of conflict resolution through empathy and dialogue, emphasizing humanity over division.
Thomas the Pray-er
Joseph Stoutzenberger reflects on his childhood Catholic faith, filled with rituals and prayers like those to St. Francis and St. Jude. He contrasts this piety with his current struggles to connect with spirituality as an adult, despite recognizing the enduring devotion in others. He finds solace in sacred spaces, valuing prayer’s nuanced presence in life.
What Became of Sin?
The Vatican Council II did not directly address sin, yet it significantly altered Catholic discourse around it. Previously centered on prohibitions, the conversation has shifted to positive actions and social justice. Many Catholics now seek to understand sin through their contributions to community well-being, reflecting a broader, more compassionate perspective on faith and morality.
Prophetic Voices from the Periphery
Joseph Stoutzenberger shares his experience of feeling like an outsider during a New Year’s Eve party, highlighting loneliness that many face. He connects this to Pope Francis’s sensitivity towards marginalized individuals, including women and LGBTQ+ communities. Francis’s inclusive actions reflect his understanding of Jesus’s embrace of the outcast and the importance of reaching those on the periphery.
A More Inclusive Church: Married and Unmarried Catholics
The Catholic Church views family as fundamental, yet a 2015 Pew study revealed only 51% of U.S. Catholics are married. With changing relationship dynamics, including cohabitation and same-sex couples, the Church faces challenges in inclusion. It must adapt to serve all Catholics, ensuring diverse expressions of holiness are recognized within the community.
Joseph Stoutzenberger 