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Joseph Stoutzenberger

Joseph Stoutzenberger

Joseph Stoutzenberger, Ph.D., is a Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies at Holy Family University in Philadelphia.

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Tag Archives: Saint Francis of Assisi

Jesus Laughing

Painting of Jesus Christ laughing

A popular image of a laughing Jesus raises a serious question: did joy and humor have a place in his life and message? By contrasting Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, and Islamic traditions, this reflection explores laughter as a sign of spiritual freedom—and asks whether the gospel truly is good news meant to bring joy.

Posted byjoestoutzenbergerDecember 26, 2025December 22, 2025Posted inCatholic, Faith & Spirituality, Spiritual ReflectionsTags:Catholic Questions, christianity, Gospel Reflection, Humor, jesus, Joseph Stoutzenberger, modern catholic social teaching commentaries and interpretations, Religious Art, Saint Francis of AssisiLeave a comment on Jesus Laughing

Creation Spirituality

It is rather interesting that the longest chapter in this slender volume is the introduction, where the author outlines his premise that Saint Francis of Assisi remains an example to the global community in the 21st century, especially when it comes to the Catholic Church’s very recent shift toward care for creation.

Posted byiPub Cloud InternationalSeptember 27, 2023September 25, 2023Posted inCatholic, Compassion, Education, Reviews, Saint Francis of AssisiTags:Book Review, Compassion, Ethics, Joseph Stoutzenberger, modern catholic social teaching commentaries and interpretations, Moral Theory, Saint Francis of Assisi, Today's American CatholicLeave a comment on Creation Spirituality
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