My brothers and sisters.
We are celebrating Father’s Day against the background of an unprecedented attack on our women and children, who are experiencing all forms of abuse at the hands of men. There is an increase in intimate partner violence, the rape of children as young as two years old by men who are “fathers.” This is an anomaly. How can a father treat his partner/wife or a child in such a manner? As we celebrate Father’s Day we are asking “real” fathers to speak out against men who are guilty and pray that they would refrain from such behaviours, and that they would learn to love and be fathers who protect and care for their children and wives/partners.
So today, let us honour Fathers who are present in the lives of their families and who are fulfilling the important role and responsibilities in protecting and nurturing their children by Christian principles. Although we live in a busy and fast-paced world, with challenges presented by social media, a good father makes time for his family; he spends time listening to his children, learning and participating in their varying activities. Fathers should encourage their children to visit wholesome social media platforms, and inspire them to be productive citizens.
Fathers, therefore, should be positive role models for their children, providing the guidance they need to navigate the world in which they live. Fathers must be conscious that children live what they learn and one critical learning is the observation on how parents relate to each other. Children who observe a loving and respectful relationship between father and mother will have a model to follow in their adult life. Let us therefore encourage fathers to show respect for women, thus providing a good model for their sons and giving their daughters a sense of safety, nurturing the hope of one day having a husband that reminds them of their loving father.Fatherhood is one of God’s greatest gifts to men which must not be abused, but should be used for the good of the human race. On behalf of the clergy of the Cure let me wish all fathers God’s richest blessings for a happy Father’s Day spent with your family.
Yours in Christ,
Patrick+
