The Fourth Commandment states "Honour your Father and your Mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you."

This commandment directs all people of all ages to show the respect and appreciation due to their father and mother.  It is the only commandment that promises a reward.

The instruction was also given for the people of Israel to provide help and support to the older members of their families thereby showing them honour and respect.  The promise of long days was understood as wellbeing in earthly life.  We also understand this promise as God's blessing revealed in spiritual gifts. (cf. Catechism Q&A 323-328)

As with Mother's Day, Father's Day is set aside as a special day for children to honour their father and express their gratitude.  Officially, Father's Day was established as a permanent national observance in 1972 in the United States and to be observed on the 3rd Sunday of June, however, the origins of a Father's Day have long been debated.  Some claim it goes back 4,000 years ago in Babylon where a father's day message for a long and healthy life was etched in a clay card; and others point to the last century around 1910.  Canada also chose to observe this special day commemorating fathers.

Important is to recognize and acknowledge the important role our fathers play in our lives and society.  Fathers gave us life and for this we can be thankful.  We recognize that family dynamics differ and that parents also bear responsibility to fulfil their duties in raising their children.

For many children, fathers are role models; the source of strength and wisdom.  They are their rock and foundational support with a guiding and helping hand.  Father's Day is a wonderful opportunity to express our love and gratitude to our fathers for all they do and have done.  Some fathers are still with us; we can go and be with them, talk with them and embrace them.  Other fathers have already gone into the eternity realms; however, it is our conviction of faith that we still can express our thoughts and feelings towards them and for them in our prayers.  We carry them in our hearts.

May this Father's Day hold much joy and blessing for our father's and children alike.