Reflections on Fatherhood

Members of BIA’s Holy Mass Association of Africa share reflections on fatherhood in honor of Fathers Day.

Fathers, like mothers, are pillars in the development of a child’s emotional well-being. Children look to their fathers to lay down the rules and enforce them. They also look to their fathers to provide a feeling of security, both physical and emotional. Children want to make their fathers proud, and an involved father promotes inner growth and strength. Studies have shown that when fathers are affectionate and supportive, it greatly affects a child’s cognitive and social development. It also instills an overall sense of well-being and self confidence.

Fathers not only influence who we are inside, but how we have relationships with people as we grow. The way a father treats his child will influence what he or she looks for in other people. Friends, lovers, and spouses will all be chosen based on how the child perceived the meaning of the relationship with his or her father. The patterns a father sets in the relationships with his children will dictate how his children relate with other people.

Young girls depend on their fathers for security and emotional support. A father shows his daughter what a good relationship with a man is like. If a father is loving and gentle, his daughter will look for those qualities in men when she’s old enough to begin dating. If a father is strong and valiant, she will relate closely to men of the same character.

Unlike girls, who model their relationships with others based on their father’s character, boys model themselves after their father’s character. Boys will seek approval from their fathers from a very young age. As human beings, we grow up by imitating the behavior of those around us; that’s how we learn to function in the world. If a father is caring and treats people with respect, the young boy will grow up much the same. When a father is absent, young boys look to other male figures to set the “rules” for how to behave and survive in the world.

Father Fumbii Ferdinand Nsah

Fatherhood, a priceless role of strength, sacrifice and perseverance. The Father is the “hus-band”  meaning “house bound”  – totally dedicated to the betterment and joy of his family and those under his charge! The Lord Bless the tireless efforts of Fathers, biological, spiritual and foster! May the be blessed with the faith of Abraham, the Wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Samson, the fidelity of St Joseph and  the courage of St Paul!

Father Samuel Tabeson

Fatherhood, mostly seen as the ability of a man to take responsibility over his children, whether real-born or foster children. Great congrats to all who have been doing this responsibility with the heart of St. Joseph, the patron saint of fathers. However, we do not forget those who are ordained and given the title “Father”. These “Divine Fathers” have the great responsibility  of catering for the souls of all. Bravo as well to all the “Divine Fathers”. May St. John Mary Vianney intercede for all the “Divine Fathers”. 

Father Paul Che

Fatherhood has a double character of one who contributes to the parenthood of children. And the Fatherhood of the Priesthood for the service of humanity and celebration of the Eucharist conferred in the sacrament of ordination. Today like others of the latter  perspective I have received encouragement and congratulatory messages from some of those whose lives I have touched as a Priest.  However reflecting on my fatherhood with the challenges of today  I prayed for friends Priests and Parental Fathers and best wishes to my biological Father whose fatherhood is so to speak a source to my Priestly Fatherhood. Best regards and happy Father’s Day

Father Gam Oliver

Saint Joseph is a perfect example of who a father should be. In the Church document Redemporis Custos, we are told that Saint Joseph took the care and protection of Mary and Jesus as his prerogative. This is evident from the flight to Egypt, from the finding in the temple and many other events in the life of Jesus and Mary. Fathers are called upon to emulate the example of Saint Joseph. To be protectors of their wives and children. Men are more energetic than women are. God made this for a purpose. The purpose is not for men’s domination over women but for men to protect women. Fathers should therefore use the gift God has given them rightly and the reward would be respect and awe from their wives and children.   

Father Collins Ebong