Pastor's Corner

2015 06-21 Happy Father’s Day

Written by:

From our pastor, Father Neil Herlihy
This Sunday we celebrate Father’s Day and we remember in a special way all that dads mean to their children. We are reminded that many of our parishioners are also fathers. Being a father is a great privilege and also a great responsibility. Fathers are challenged to set a good example for their children and to help prepare them for their lives as adults.

It is important that we remember that we are called to honor our fathers. There is a need to maintain a strong bond of communication with them and assist in their care in their later years, after the many years that they have cared for us in so many different ways. It is also suggested that we pray for them after their death. Our love for our fathers and for our other family members should reflect the love that God has for us.

As we know, Pope Francis has placed great emphasis and focus on fatherhood. The National Catholic Register recently reported that Pope Francis reminded us that every family needs a father. He stated “to be a good father, in the first place, is to be present in the family, sharing the joys and sorrows with his wife, accompanying one’s children as they grow.” He also stated that a good father teaches his children by giving a daily example of love and understanding. He expressed his hope that all fathers would be like Saint Joseph and that they would strive “to protect their children and to teach them wisdom, faith and integrity. “ He also prayed that fathers would “always experience our gratitude, appreciation and support. “

The following prayer reflects the love we should have for our fathers:

FATHER, IT IS YOUR COMMANDMENT THAT WE SHOULD HONOR OUR FATHERS;
HEAR THE PRAYERS WE OFFER YOU FOR THEM. 
GRANT THEM MANY YEARS ON EARTH AND KEEP THEM IN HEALTH IN MIND AND BODY.
BLESS THEIR WORK AND ALL THEY DO.
GIVE THEM BACK A HUNDRED FOLD WHATEVER THEY HAVE DONE FOR US.
INSPIRE THEM WITH YOUR LOVE AND HELP THEM TO FULFILL YOUR HOLY LAW.
ONE DAY, MAY WE BE THEIR COMFORT AND SUPPORT, SO THAT HAVING THEIR AFFECTION ON EARTH, 
WE MAY HAVE THE JOY OF BEING WITH THEM FOREVER IN YOUR HOME IN HEAVEN. AMEN.

As we thank all fathers on this special day, we are invited to thank Our Heavenly Father for the gift of our lives and for the many blessings He has bestowed on us.
 

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