A Prayer for Father's Day

Loving and Merciful God, our thoughts and prayers today are turned towards our fathers.

For those whose fathers have increased the joy in their lives, we give you thanks.

For those whose fathers’ presence is greatly missed may we take time to gratefully recall all they have given to us, providing for us in our growing.

For those whose fathers have recently been lost or who are facing the imminent loss of their fathers, may they find comfort in their grief, hope in their despair, courage in the love that their fathers have given them.

We give thanks, God, for the fathers who sustain and support us in our living, who love us no matter what!

We give thanks to you, O God, for all those whose gift for fatherhood is so strong that they have have used your gift to minister to others, providing guidance and stability, nurture and love.

We pray, too, for those men who, for whatever reason, have not been good fathers. We pray, compassionate God, for those whose fathers have been a source of hurt and pain, and have caused them to suffer. May their wounds be healed.  May they find in you, in us, in others, the nurturing and sustaining love which they need for growth and well-being.

We recall with sadness fathers who are separated from their children through life choices made by them or others. Give them the insight and wisdom, the courage and perseverance to parent in whatever creative and life-giving ways may be open to them. 

We remember to you single fathers and single mothers who struggle to be both parents to their children  -- to provide all the emotional, physical and spiritual needs without the constant support of a spouse or partner. May they find the strength, courage and wisdom for their task.

We pray for those fathers whose relationships with their children have been difficult or disappointing. 

We pray, too, for those who have been denied a chance to be fathers, and for those whose years of parenting have been cut short by the loss of a child. We turn to You, most holy God, knowing and trusting that you can console where consolation seems impossible.  May these  men receive comfort for their spirit, and peace and hope for living, that their gifts may not be denied to others.

Finally, we rejoice with you, O God, at the many fine men, who in spite of confusing roles and expectations in a rapidly changing society, have taken their place as fathers with open hearts, with willingness and joy.

And we join all fathers everywhere in praying that their children may be well and happy, and a source of joy for years to come. 

Hear our prayer, Loving Father, and give us always the assurance of your love, that we may in turn bring that love into the lives of others.  Amen.