A Father’s Day prayer

Loving and merciful God,

We thank you for all fathers: the men you have chosen to protect, guide and love their children.

Provide for them as they provide for their children. Bless them with courage and perseverance so they may walk always in your ways and with a thankful heart to delight in the simple and significant moments of their lives.

Strengthen them in Word and sacrament to live, practice, and proclaim their faith in a world in such need of the joy and truth of your Gospel.

Renew in them your tender mercies so they may model the gentle compassion of your Son.

Fortify them with the love and care of families and friends. Entrust them to the protection of St. Joseph, the earthly father of our God.

We love our fathers, Lord.

We ask you to bless them this day and always. Amen.

— Bishop Michael F. Burbidge