REPORTER: OBY ARINZE
Fathers have been described as the pillar and strength of every family, whose sacrifices, guidance and sense of responsibility remain crucial to the stability of the home and society at large.
The description was made in a homily delivered by Reverend Father John Bosco Ezika at Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity Onitsha to mark Father’s day.
The priest maintained that fathers occupy a unique position as spiritual heads, providers and protectors of their families, urging them to remain steadfast in faith, discipline and commitment to their homes despite prevailing economic challenges.
He reminded fathers of the need to lead by good example, noting that the values they uphold would shape the moral upbringing and future of their children.
The Catholic priest also charged fathers to nurture love, peace and unity within their homes, while placing God at the centre of their family affairs.
Speaking with Radio Nigeria, the President of Catholic Men Organisation, Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha, Sir Steve Okoli, appealed to fathers to pay greater attention to their health in order to avoid the growing trend of sudden collapse and death among men.
Sir Steve Okoli expressed concern on how many men often neglect regular medical check-ups while struggling tirelessly to provide for their families, only to develop health complications that could have been detected earlier.
He stressed that taking care of one’s health was not a sign of selfishness but a necessary move for every father who desires to remain alive and strong for his family.
Also speaking, another father, Dr Evaristus Abba, called on fathers to make their presence felt more in the lives of their children by offering emotional support, moral guidance and spending quality time with them.
Correspondent Oby Arinze reports that the Father’s Day celebration featured medical checks for fathers, including blood pressure and blood sugar tests, cholesterol test among other health screenings.
The fathers were equally prayed for and blessed, while songs of appreciation were rendered in their honour by members of the congregation.
