Father's Day Letter

 Letter from RCC

June 21st, 2026 Dear Siblings—and Fathers--in Christ, As we celebrate Father's Day in the USA and several other countries, we give thanks for the many fathers, grandfathers and father figures who have helped shape our lives. Some taught us through their words, but many taught us through their example—through ordinary acts of love, sacrifice, perseverance and care that became lasting lessons. For many, a father or grandfather was the one who taught practical skills and important values: honesty, responsibility, kindness, and perseverance. The lessons that remain with us longest are often not those we were told, but those we witnessed. Scripture reminds us that God is loving, compassionate, patient, and faithful. The psalmist writes, "As a father has compassion for his children, so the Lord has compassion for those who fear him" (Psalm 103:13). While no human parent can perfectly reflect God's love, fathers and grandfathers are given the sacred opportunity to help others experience something of that divine care. Children often form their earliest understanding of God through the people who love them. When fathers model patience, children learn patience. When they demonstrate integrity, humility, forgiveness and compassion, they teach lessons that can guide a lifetime. The mystery of the Most Holy Trinity offers an important vision for family life. God is not isolation but communion—Father/Creator, Son/Redeemer, and Holy Spirit/Sanctifier united in perfect love. Families are called to reflect that same spirit of relationship, mutual respect, and self-giving love. Authentic fatherhood is not rooted in domination or control but in service, presence, and shared life. Because of this, fathers are called to be spiritual leaders—along with their spouses or co-parents-- within their homes. Through prayer, participation in the life of the Church, conversations about faith and daily witness, they help nurture the spiritual growth of their families. Children need more than material support; they need examples of faith, hope, and love. When fathers are present and engaged they help create homes where faith can flourish. The Gospel presents us with the model of Jesus, who welcomed children, listened to the overlooked, welcomed the outcast and taught that true greatness is found in service. Fathers who seek to follow Christ are called to embody those same values. The measure of fatherhood is not status or authority but the willingness to love generously, listen attentively, forgive readily and serve faithfully. Saint Paul encourages us: "Do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up with the training and instruction of God" (Ephesians 6:4). In a world that can often be harsh and divided, fathers have the opportunity to create spaces of safety, encouragement, and hope. Children may forget many words, but they rarely forget who was present for them during life's important moments. Similarly, grandfathers convey the stories and wisdom of previous generations to their grandchildren. That being said, we recognize that Father's Day can be difficult for some. Not every experience of fatherhood has been marked by love, acceptance and support. Some carry wounds caused by absence, abuse, neglect or broken relationships. Others grieve fathers, grandfathers and father figures who have died. To all who carry such burdens, the Reformed Catholic Church extends compassion and prayer. The Gospel assures us that God's love is greater than every human failure. As the psalmist declares: "Though my father and mother forsake me, God will receive me" (Psalm 27:10). God's love remains constant, and healing always remains possible. We also wish to honor those who live the vocation of fatherhood beyond biology or even gender: adoptive and foster fathers, stepfathers, godfathers, uncles, mentors, teachers, coaches, clergy and countless other “fathers” whose guidance and care have changed lives. They remind us that fatherhood is ultimately determined not by genetics but by love. As fathers, grandfathers and father figures seek to live their vocation, may they draw strength from the divine love of God. May Saint Joseph--faithful guardian of the Holy Family--intercede for them, and may God bless them abundantly. With gratitude for all those who nurture, guide and love their children, we offer our prayers and blessing. Happy Father’s Day! The Bishops and Board of Directors of the Reformed Catholic Church reformedcatholic.org