# A Father’s Day Prayer
*2016-06-19*

> Bill Young reflects on a blessed Father’s Day pilgrimage to the relics of St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher, then offers a heartfelt prayer for fathers.

## A Blessed Pilgrimage

I began the day by attending Mass at the Church of the Little Flower in Coral Gables, a beautiful parish with more than 90 years of history. My wife and son joined me for a special pilgrimage to venerate the relics of St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher, both martyred during the reign of Henry VIII. Henry broke with Rome when the Pope would not grant his divorce, leading to the execution of these two holy men. The 1966 film *A Man for All Seasons* portrays St. Thomas More’s courageous stand; it won Best Picture and Best Actor that year. Their witness reminds us that even in the face of death, the truth of the Gospel endures.

## A Surprising Encounter

While seated a few rows ahead of me, I thought I recognized former Florida governor and presidential candidate Jeb Bush. I turned, offered the sign of peace, and was indeed greeted by him and his wife. I shook his hand and said, “We’ll be praying for you, Governor Bush, and for our country.” I look forward to a future episode dedicated to prayers for our leaders.

## A Father’s Prayer

Now I turn to the prayer for fathers. First, I thank our Heavenly Father for all He has given us, our Lord Jesus Christ for dying for our sins, and the Holy Spirit for the wisdom and discernment to live rightly.

I thank you, Lord, for the blessing of family and the joy of being called a dad. Grant me guidance each day to know what to say, to answer the questions of my children with patience, and to be present when they fall. Help me mend a broken toy, hold a hand, sing a song, and teach right from wrong. Their childhood passes so quickly; give me the grace to make each moment lasting. When they go to bed, let my kiss and hug be a timeless treasure. This is my prayer, Father, for the love and strength to be a good father as our Heavenly Father is with us. Amen.

## Closing Thoughts

I hope every father enjoyed a blessed Father’s Day, filled with strength, wisdom, and the desire to reflect the love of our Heavenly Father.

*May we all strive to be fathers who mirror the love and guidance of our Heavenly Father.*