Across the United States today, millions of fathers will be honored in churches, at family dinner tables and in other places because of their important role in our society.
It’s Father’s Day, and we join in saluting the men who have taken on the difficult but rewarding job of raising children.
Sadly, we have seen all too often over the past several decades the painful consequences to children when their fathers are absent from the family.
Having a father in the home reduces the likelihood that youngsters will be involved in crime, drug use or other dangerous behaviors. So it is sad that divorce and childbirth outside of wedlock have led to many children having far too little contact with their fathers.
Of course, even the most conscientious, devoted fathers are not perfect. But those of us who were fortunate enough to have fathers as a regular, stable, protective presence while we were growing up certainly ought to be grateful.
Good parenting is not easy, so today in particular, we honor fathers who face that challenge head-on.