Each June, we celebrate Father’s Day, giving thanks to God for the gift of fathers and the essential role that all fathers are called to play in building up our families and communities.
In John’s Gospel, Jesus tells us, “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you.” These words remind us of the deep and abiding love God the Father has for each of us. As a father, St. Joseph provides a powerful witness to all fathers in how best to emulate this divine love.
Fathers, you play an irreplaceable role in forming your children in the truth of Christ and in leaving the legacy of a strong Catholic faith. Be edified by the example of St. Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. He embraced his role as husband, foster father and protector of the Holy Family with humility and trust in God’s plan. May you embrace your vocation with the humility and courage of St. Joseph, and may your daily sacrifices, which are seen clearly by our Father in heaven, lead you, your families and our world closer to God.
To those of us whose fathers have passed from this life, I understand the pain of loss you experience. It is a consolation of our faith to know that we can still be united with our fathers in prayer.
In a special way today, we recognize our fathers as a gift from God, with great love and thanksgiving. May St. Joseph continue to be an inspiration to them, and may Our Lord bless them now and always. Happy Father’s Day!
