On the occasion of Father's Day, which this year is celebrated on June 21, Bishop Bohdan Danylo, Chairman of the Patriarchal Commission for Clergy Affairs, called on the faithful of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church not only to thank their biological parents, but also to especially pray for their spiritual fathers - priests.
In his video message, the bishop emphasized that Father's Day is a good opportunity to remember the love, presence, responsibility, and sacrifice of those who accompany us in life. The bishop urged us to thank our parents, call them, and pray for those who have already passed away.
"Each of us can give thanks in prayer for those parents who may no longer be with us. And those of you who have a father among us, call him and thank him for his presence in your life," said Bishop Bohdan.
The Bishop also drew attention to the important role of the priest as the spiritual father of the parish community. It is thanks to his response to God's call that the faithful have the opportunity to participate in the Divine Liturgy, approach the Holy Sacraments, receive spiritual support, and grow together in faith.
"This year, in a special way, I would like to ask you to pray for your spiritual fathers. Today, the Divine Liturgy was served in your churches, because you have a priest - your spiritual father," he emphasized.
Bishop Bohdan urged the faithful not to take the daily ministry of pastors for granted, but to show them their gratitude — through prayer, kind words, and sincere support.
“Pray for him, smile, give thanks for his ministry. This priest answered “yes” to God’s call. And because of this, today you can together as a church community offer the best thanksgiving to God — the Divine Liturgy,” the bishop said.
Speaking about the calling of parents, the bishop emphasized that it is parents who pass on important life virtues to their children - courage, endurance, responsibility, and loyalty.
“Courage, endurance are the characteristics that we received from our Heavenly Father,” noted Bishop Bohdan Danylo.
On this day, let us unite in prayer for all the fathers of our parish - living and those who have passed away. Let us also remember our spiritual fathers, thanking them for their prayer, service, preaching of the word of God, and daily care for the parish community.
May the Lord bless all parents, grant them health, wisdom, and strength, and welcome the departed into His Heavenly Kingdom.
Based on materials from the Information Department of the UGCC
