by Joseph Stoutzenberger A few thoughtful, zealous young men I know have taken up reading the bible regularly. They carry a copy of the book with them, attend Sunday services at a bible-centered church, and meet with other young people once a week to discuss bible passages. As a Christian myself, why am I uneasyContinue reading “When Bible Reading Becomes Toxic”
Category Archives: Healing the Catholic Church
What Is the Mystical Body?
The author reflects on attending Mass in solidarity with their daughter-in-law undergoing surgery. They explore the concept of the “mystical body of Christ,” emphasizing the deep connection shared among believers and all creation. Through liturgy, they experience unity transcending physical distance, embodying Pope Pius XII’s vision of the Church’s inclusivity.
Where Is the American Dream Today?
by Joseph Stoutzenberger A few years ago, I had a class of twenty-five students. Looking over the class list, I discovered that thirteen students had Hispanic surnames. They typically were studying to be nurses or to work in another medical field. School policy was not to inquire about a student’s citizenship status, but it isContinue reading “Where Is the American Dream Today?”
A Culture of Life
In the mid-1970s, U.S. Catholic bishops proposed teaching a “Respect Life” course in high schools, emphasizing a broad, interconnected approach to life issues. Cardinal Bernardin and Pope John Paul II advocated for a culture valuing all life stages, opposing a limited focus on certain issues like abortion. Thomas Berry calls for a transformative “new story” that prioritizes life’s interconnectedness.
What’s Sinister?
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.
What’s Missing without Women Priests?
by Joseph Stoutzenberger Talking about confession with a Catholic woman recently, she mentioned that she hadn’t been to confession to a priest in quite a while. She then added, “If there were women priests, I would go to confession in a hot second.” She talked about going to confession a number of years ago duringContinue reading “What’s Missing without Women Priests?”
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.
Married Priests?
In a recent seminary reunion, attendees reflected on their paths, with some becoming priests and many marrying and engaging in social service. The discussion raised questions about the Catholic Church’s celibacy requirement and the potential return to ordaining married priests, particularly in light of ongoing priest shortages and Vatican II’s impact on church practices.
Table or Altar: The Both-And Catholic Worldview
The blog reflects on differing perspectives as Eucharistic ministers, emphasizing the importance of recognizing both the divine and human aspects of Christ in Catholicism. It highlights the evolution of worship post-Vatican II towards a “both-and” approach, wherein both the sacrificial and communal meanings of the Mass coexist, enriching the faith experience.
Joseph Stoutzenberger 