Happy Father’s Day Week! Did you know that Father's Day began as a Catholic tradition to honor fathers and celebrate the influence of fathers in society? It all began in European countries during the Middle Ages and has been celebrated on March 19 (Saint Joseph's Day). This celebration was brought by the Spanish and Portuguese to Latin America, where it is often still celebrated on March 19th.
In the United States, the first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in Washington state. However, it was not until 1972 that Father’s Day became a nationwide holiday in the United States.
Let us celebrate along with the men who are fathers, the men who have stepped in to take care of—and play a fatherly role—for the children who aren’t their own. And for those men who long to be fathers, but for some reason, it hasn’t become a reality in their lives yet. We remember, too those who are grieving the loss of a father or are missing their dad this Father’s Day.
One of the best gifts we can give to our dads is prayer. Prayer is a great opportunity to lift up every single person on Father’s Day. Our prayers not only encourage them, but also let them know that they are loved and supported.
You may say a short prayer like the one below or light a candle in our sanctuary under one of the statues. Lighting the candles under St. Joseph is most appropriate on Father’s Day, as St. Joseph was the ultimate role model for fathers.
God, bless all the fathers in the world.
Guide them to be good role models
and loving to all their children.
Help them to be a father like You are.
Give them grace and patience
to handle situations in a loving way. Amen!
At Sacred Heart, we are so fortunate to be surrounded by so many wonderful fathers. We have been blessed with our spiritual leaders – Fr. Bill and Msgr. Doran. A very happy Father’s Day to both of them. I have it on good authority (a few text messages) that everything in Alaska is wonderful! We are so thankful to Msgr. Doran for filling in for Fr. Bill. Thank you Msgr. Doran and