Happy Father's Day

06-16-2024Pastor's CornerFr. Bob Deehan

Happy Father's Day! We remember in a special way in our prayers this weekend all "Dads" both living and deceased. This day reminds me of a fact that I learned a few years ago about the special influence fathers can have on their families. It has been shown that fathers - in particular - who practice their faith and accompany their families to Mass each weekend have a singular, significant impact on their own children's practice of their faith going forward.

I have a wonderful childhood memory of seeing my father kneeling by his bed saying his prayers before he went to sleep for the night. It is one of those things that has stayed with me; and I am sure that it was his faith as well as my mother's faith that were special influences on my own spiritual development and eventual consideration of a vocation to the priesthood. It gives one pause to think about the "ripple" effects a faith-filled Catholic parent can have on their children as well as on other members of the community - even generations later!

As a Church community, let us encourage and support men to follow the example of St. Joseph and embrace their various roles as father. Even if a man is not a parent, he is still called to spiritual fatherhood— a fatherhood that fosters others’ relationship with God, protecting them from evil and providing an example of Christ’s love. St. Joseph, himself, was unexpectedly called to be both a practical and spiritual father to Jesus and amid very difficult circumstances. But despite all obstacles, Joseph was faithful. Through the intercession of St. Joseph, may God bless all fathers in their unique and important role in families and in society. May they be filled with the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, and one day come to the eternal home the Lord has prepared for them in heaven.