NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE power of dads in the Catholic Church.
As families attend Mass together each and every Sunday, a recent study revealed that the religious practice of the father of the family is the primary factor that determines the future attendance at or absence from church of the children.
With this in mind, Orange County Catholic decided to visit San Francisco Solano Catholic Church one Sunday morning and sit down with dads who were enjoying Mass with their kids of all ages.
In honor of Father’s Day weekend, we asked the proud dads to share a few encouraging words for their children about God’s love and the power they each have to make a positive difference in this world. What came next were letters of encouragement, joy and hope that prove dads can leave quite a positive impact within the Church.
MARK CARLOS AND HIS CHILDREN REBECCA, VICTORIA AND ALEJANDRO VOLUNTEER AT SAN FRANCISCO SOLANO CATHOLIC CHURCH IN RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA. PHOTO BY MIKE VULPO
DEAR REBECCA, VICTORIA AND ALEJANDRO,
What makes you so special is watching you grow up in the Catholic faith and watching you be so close to God. Unfortunately, it takes some of us a lot longer in life to realize how important it is, and through example, your mom and I have been able to teach you to rely on God from an early age, put everything in his hands and remain humble. Rebecca, I wake up in the morning and you’re reading your Bible, and I can sense your passion, which is really an inspiration to me and the entire family. Victoria, you are passionate about your God-given gifts and have a beautiful heart. You show your love and your faith through your art, which is truly amazing. Alejandro, you are on fire! You were at adoration recently, and at 10 years old, you’re in tears and when I asked what was wrong, you said, “God loves me.” We are blessed, and I thank God for our family every day. Please remember that faith is the most important thing in your life. It’s what keeps us centered in times of anxiety and uncertainty. There are so many things that want to pull you away from faith but remember to always stay centered and keep your faith at the core of everything you do.
Love Your Dad,
Mark Carlos
DANIEL AND HIS WIFE EMILY ENJOY A WEEKEND AT CHURCH WITH THEIR YOUNGEST CHILD PEARL. PHOTO BY MIKE VULPO
DEAR ZION, JEDEDIAH AND PEARL,
My three miracles, a quick note from your dad. I’m so proud of each of you. Always know that you are wanted, you are loved and that God delights in you. You bring your mom and I such joy. As you grow older, remember this: there’s only one unshakable truth, and that truth is Jesus Christ. His love is never ending, and His Mercy knows no bounds. You might not always feel it, but He is always there. His love is always freely given, never earned. Let Him into your heart and draw close to him — He is waiting for you with open arms. Wherever life takes you, stay close to the Eucharist and I’ll find you there.
Love Your Dad,
Daniel H.
DEAR CICELY, T.J., BRITTANY AND JOELLE,
I’m so proud that you live the Catholic life. Besides talking the talk, you are doing stuff and walking the walk. You’re bringing your kids to church. You’re also bringing them up through baptisms, confirmations and marriages. Cicely, I love that you are independent and strong willed. T.J., you are athletic, faith-formed and have a beautiful heart. Brittany, you are such a giving girl. Joelle, your heart is the free spirit, and you are my mother in a mini version. That is such a beautiful blessing. As I continue being a dad and grandpa, I also want to tell my grandkids to keep exploring your faith. It’s only going to lead you to a better life. Keep close to God and keep close to Mary. She’s the best. She will guide you the right way.
Love Your Dad,
Jim Poettgen
JEFF JENNISON ENJOYS AN AFTERNOON WITH HIS FAMILY, INCLUDING CHILDREN JACK, MAGGIE, CHARLIE AND JANE. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEFF JENNISON
DEAR JACK, MAGGIE, CHARLIE AND JANE,
God has blessed me tremendously by providing me the opportunity to be your dad. You have all chosen to prioritize your faith, and that is the best Father’s Day gift I could ever ask for. Jack and Maggie, you have been the quintessential siblings to Charlie and Jane and have been amazing sources of constant help and love to them and me and mom too Charlie and Jane, you have embraced the challenges God has placed upon you and have never complained
about all the extra things you need to do daily. The support you show one another is a sign of God’s love working in each of you. I love you all so much and am so grateful for the four of you!
Love Your Dad,
Jeff Jennison