Intercession
May expectant mothers be supported by the fathers of their children in welcoming new life.
Prayers
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
“Fatherhood is first a spiritual
reality, because fatherhood has its origins in God who chose to reveal
Himself to us as Our Father, sending his only Son for the sake of our
salvation. Fathers therefore have a special and unique role ‘in
revealing and in reliving on earth the very fatherhood of God’ (
FC 25).*
Fathers have a vital, unique, and important role to play in the
personal and spiritual development of their children, and in reflecting
the love of God the Father himself. Fathers are called to show the world
the virtues of a tender protector, while living out the virtues of
humility and courage.
In all circumstances, but especially
in difficult circumstances, a father needs to be encouraged to
faithfully accept the role entrusted to him by God and support the
mother of his child. Through our prayers and through the intercession of
St. Joseph, patron of fathers, may fathers come to know the
irreplaceable role they hold in the lives of their children, and the
responsibility they share in welcoming God’s gift of new life!”
Acts of Reparation
(Choose one.)
- Pray a decade of the Rosary, followed by this Prayer to St. Joseph for
all expectant mothers and fathers, especially those who are in
difficult circumstances. May they be guided and inspired by the example
of Mary and Joseph in welcoming new life.
- Choose one of your favorite foods, beverages, snacks, or treats to fast from for one day for this month’s intention.
- Offer some other sacrifice or prayer that you feel called to do for this month’s intention.
One Step Further
Consider using this
simple activity guide
to
create a spiritual bouquet seeking the intercession of St. Joseph,
patron of fathers, on Father’s Day. In addition to the personal
intentions brought to your heart by Father’s Day, please also pray for
expectant mothers to be lovingly supported by the fathers of their
children in welcoming new life.
*Excerpts from
Familiaris consortio
(
On the Family
), no. 25 © 1981, Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Used with permission. All rights reserved.