I may forget the name of the priest who gave our priest retreat last week but I won't forget his lively and thought-provoking talks.  And for some reason, I do remember a priest, Father Michael Jarema, who was the presenter of our Priest Continuing Education a few years ago, and I remember his topic which was "Fatherhood."  It was interesting and informative as he presented material from his book:  "Fathering the Next Generation:  Men Mentoring Men."  It was relevant to priests as we are called to "father" the flock entrusted to our care, and it was also helpful to help heal any wounds created by our fathers, as he talked about different styles of fatherhood, some healthy and some unhealthy, that especially affect young men as they are growing up.  If you are interested, you might find this book on the internet.  It reminds me that fatherhoood is a challenging responsibility and some, obviously, do better than others in living out this important vocation.

I pray this weekend in thanksgiving for the good that fathers are doing for their children and for healing in those who have been wounded by words and/or actions of their fathers from the past or those who are being hurt today.  Let's pray for all who are fathering their children, that they will open themselves up to the Lord, and let Him guide their lives in general and their lives as fathers every day.