Fathers' Irreplaceable Role in Welcoming Life
Most Reverend Shelton J. Fabre
Archbishop of Louisville
Although fathers do not
physically carry their children from conception, fathers can still be
overwhelmed by an unexpected pregnancy. We Christians must support men
who, in following the example of St. Joseph, choose to embrace their
role as a father in all circumstances, but especially in challenging
situations.
St. Joseph was
unexpectedly called to fatherhood amid extremely confusing and difficult
circumstances. However, despite many obstacles, St. Joseph chose to be
faithful. St. Joseph chose life by listening to God’s will and
consciously deciding to be a father to Jesus, the Son of God.
Pope Saint John Paul II
said that fathers are called to exhibit “generous responsibility for
the life conceived under the heart of the mother” (Familiaris consortio
25). Like St. Joseph, all fathers are uniquely entrusted with the
protection and defense of both mother and child and, in this way,
safeguard the sanctity of human life.
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