Justin and his wife Bernadette have three children (John-Paul, Mary Christine, and Thérèse), and they live in Bowie, Maryland, and attend Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Justin has taught theology and Spanish at Bishop McNamara High School in Forestville, Maryland, since 2006. He has two B.A.s from the University of Maryland - College Park, an M.A. from the Universidad de Salamanca (Spain), and an M.A. from Staffordshire University (England). Along with EpicPew, Justin has written for Aleteia, Ave Maria Press, Catholic Exchange, Catholic365, the journal Church Life, Our Sunday Visitor, and various other publications. Catch up with him on Twitter: @McClainJustin.
Technique. Technology. Funding. Pedagogy. Business models. Test scores. Assessments. While each of these considerations has great merit, these and similar factors are not inherently unique to Catholic schools. But what makes the Catholic school different? What is at the core of Catholic education? If it is not the centrality of the Gospel, as imparted by educators on …
10 Books That Would Inspire Any Catholic School Educator Read More »
On April 29, the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena (March 25, 1347 – April 29, 1380). Saint Catherine of Siena is a saint whom all Catholics should know well and acquire a deep devotion to, especially in these challenging times in society. Here are ten things you perhaps did not know about …
10 Amazing Facts You Didn’t Know About St. Catherine of Siena Read More »
“I want to be happy” is a common dictum in modern times. If we want to be happy– truly joyful, then we must be holy, and this effusive rejoicing comes about as a result. During his Angelus for November 30, 1986, Saint Pope John Paul II famously declared: “We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is …
8 Practical Ways to Keep Your Easter Joy Throughout the Year Read More »
If you attend mass regularly (and hopefully you already do, at least every Sunday and on holy days of obligation), chances are you know exactly who each of these people are. In fact, you (and I) are easily one of them. But remember – we are laughing with each other here. After all, the most important …
The 20 Types of People You’ll Meet at Mass–Which One Are You? Read More »
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, whose baptismal name is Joseph Ratzinger, turned ninety years old on Sunday, April 16, 2017 (Easter Sunday this year)! Pope Emeritus Benedict recently released his much-anticipated last book, Last Testament: In His Own Words, with Peter Seewald . If you are so inclined, you can find my review of the book on Catholic Exchange. …
Benedict XVI is Pretty Much the Theological Equivalent of Batman Read More »
Here at EpicPew, you’ll find the best movie, book, and media reviews to help grow and cultivate a deep and lasting faith that is truly Catholic. To encourage you on your journey, we give away books and media from our very generous sponsors and donors. Everyone is free to enter, but all are encouraged to …
Win! 10 Copies of Mother Angelica: on Christ and Our Lady Read More »
The Annunciation of the Archangel Gabriel to the Blessed Virgin Mary–that she would be the Mother of God–is celebrated each year on March 25. Because of this, March 25 is precisely nine months before Christmas! Here’s five more fascinating facts about the Annunciation! “The Annunciation” by Fra Angelico (ca. 1437-1446) 1. The Annunciation only appears …
4 Biblical Facts Every Protestant Should Know About the Annunciation Read More »
How much do you know about the Shroud of Turin? Lent (especially the Triduum) is an especially opportune time for Catholics – and anyone of good will, for that matter – to learn more about this iconic relic. After all, it is perhaps the most famous artifact in the field of forensics, at least with …
4 Classic Films about the Shroud of Turin Available in One DVD Read More »
Saint Patrick’s Day is about far more than parades, green beer, and [even] shamrock shakes. March 17 is a holy day for the Church as we celebrate the righteous life of Saint Patrick of Ireland (385 – March 17, 461), a key figure in the early Church. Here are seventeen breathtaking quotes translated into English from …
On August 28, 2014, Cardinal Wuerl of the Archdiocese of Washington offered brief, yet particularly poignant, closing remarks at the conclusion of the Mass of the Holy Spirit at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. This Eucharistic celebration was offered for the Catholic University of America community to usher in the 2014-2015 academic year. …
Global Persecution of Christians is on the Rise. Here’s 7 Groups Raising Awareness Read More »