By now, most of us are familiar with the study that shows that the greatest single factor in a children’s practice of the faith as an adult is whether or not their father practiced Catholicism. In certain corners of the Church, there are some amazing men’s ministries that have sprung up to help men practice their Catholicism with faith, depth, and joy. But we can always do better. With Father’s Day just six short months away, here are a few things you might do to encourage and strengthen men in the faith. (In short, you can help fathers in the Church.)
- If public Masses have resumed in your diocese, offer a special blessing for fathers at the conclusion of Mass
- If you are still under strict social distancing guidelines, offer “drive-up” blessings
- Offer a men’s holy hour on or around Father’s Day – bonus points if you are able to display the relics of male saints who are role models for physical and spiritual fatherhood
- Offer food for thought, through the preaching of the clergy, a day of reflection, or prayer guide about the fatherhood of God
You don’t need to re-orient your entire parish toward men. All you need to do is acknowledge that fatherhood matters…and watch the men in your parish come alive. We need more fathers in the Church – and you can help!
