John Baldino, OFS
John Baldino, OFS is a Secular Franciscan and an Assistant Professor in Philosophy and Religious Studies at Lackawanna College in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He also teaches courses in writing and ethics at Excelsior University in Albany, New York. John is a regular contributor to Catholic Insight, Charity in Truth, Catholic 365, and Artium
An American Professor’s Reaction to the Election of an American Pope
“Sorry. I’m blowing up your phone,” I wrote after sending a barrage of text messages regarding the election of Pope Leo XIV. “I'm blowing...
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christianity
Good Christians, now rejoice! The timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his encounters with three ghosts is steeped in Christian references, symbolism, and themes...
Spiritual but Not Religious: An Eroding Credo
The faith and devotion of religious people is evident in many ways. They have deeply held beliefs and belong to an organized religion -...
Death and Dying: A Christian Perspective
Life begins, and life end ends. As Christians we hold dear the inherent dignity of that life for its entirety—from its beginning at conception...
Matthew’s Lessons on Lenten Humility
If one can get past the nauseating image of John the Baptist dining on locusts, (which may our own lot soon - Ed.) chapter...
A Little Lenten Reflection
As the universal Church begins the anticipatory and penitent season of Lent, it is important to take a moment to understand the season’s meaning...
Secular Franciscans: Who Are They?
(In light of the memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, who was a third-order Dominican, readers may enjoy these reflections from John Baldio, on...
The Catholic Church: A History of Adapting and Embracing New Technology
Go forth without fear, for he who created you has made you holy, has always protected you, and loves you as a mother. —St....
A Tough Habit to Break
Religious life is habit-forming. Though this is a play on words, the sentiment is accurate. In the culture of Roman Catholicism, mere mention of...
Catholic Teaching: Counter-Cultural and Necessary
(by John Baldino)
Many of the teachings, traditions and practices of the Catholic Church are in contrast to the beliefs, habits and norms of modern...
