Bishop Solis' Father's Day message

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Greetings of Christ’s peace and love!

On Sunday we celebrate Father’s Day, a special time to recognize, honor and thank our earthly father for the gift of life and the paternal image of a loving and caring God.

This is a sentimental occasion for me personally, as I vividly recall the experiences of my childhood days that strongly influenced and shaped my life. Like most who grew up with a dad, there is a greater chance that we share the same sentiment and perspective toward God as a father that we feel toward our earthly parent.

My dad died early but lived long enough to inspire and teach me the essential virtues and foundational values that guided my relationships with other people of every age and status in life. He was my primary teacher who taught me everything from riding a bike to driving a car. I looked up to him with great respect and admiration as a hero and a role model. He witnessed the self-giving love of a father through his words, deeds and especially his work ethics. He showed us, his children, fidelity and commitment in marriage, persistence and perseverance as he provided us comfort, security, safety; everything we needed was earned with his sweat and tears.

Today, I join you in thanking our fathers who helped lay the foundation of our lives. It is a tremendous blessing to recognize such privilege despite some inevitable human shortcomings on their part. In their limited and imperfect ways, they mirror and reflect the love of God, our heavenly Father.

Father’s Day will help us remember that we have a God who provides us our earthly father. This Sunday, let us make this day truly special by appreciating, honoring and thanking God for our dad, living or dead. Thank God for the gift of our fathers and pray that they remain faithful to their sacred vocation, that they find the courage and strength to persevere amidst their work, challenges, sacrifices and other burdens and responsibilities.

May our Lord continue to accompany and guide them in their joys and sorrows, and nourish them with his grace as they bear witness to his unconditional love for us. As they find peace on earth, may they be blessed with eternal peace in heaven.

Happy Father’s Day!