By Ifeyinwa Ogwo
Rev. Fr. Kisito Agha, Priest-in-Residence at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in GRA, Awka, has urged fathers to love themselves more by loving their wives and children, caring for their well-being. He advised them to save for old age instead of overspending and not to rely on their children when they are elderly. “Some fathers take time to service their cars meticulously. They also extend that care to their wives and children by ensuring they get proper medical attention when sick, but often neglect their own health.”
Fr. Agha made these remarks during the 9:30 am Mass celebrating Catholic Father’s Day, themed “Civic Engagement of Christian Fathers As Agents of Change for Good Governance,” held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, GRA, Awka.
He advised fathers not to bear their responsibilities alone but to shoulder them with faith, encouraging prayer when burdens feel heavy. “Regardless of how tough life seems, Jesus reminds us, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; he who believes in me will have life in its fullness.” Trust in God and dedicate your burdens to Him, as He is the reason for our gathering, our health, and our family growth,” he said.
Fr. Agha commended fathers for their active participation in church and their commitment, noting, “In more than six parishes I have served, I have rarely seen fathers unite as they do here. If you missed yesterday’s gathering, you missed a lot.” He urged mothers to appreciate their husbands’ efforts through constant gifts and encouraged children not to rely solely on their father’s wealth.
Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Uduh, the Mass’s chief celebrant, encouraged fathers to read the Bible regularly so God’s Word can help them overcome obstacles. “If this were your last Father’s Day, what would you do? Have you loved God and your family enough?” he asked.
The National President of the Catholic Men’s Organisation (CMO), Prince Faith Uche Iwuorisha, highlighted that Father’s Day is an opportunity to recognise fathers’ strength, guidance, and daily support. The feast of St. Joseph the Worker, celebrated as Father’s Day in the church, emphasises the dignity of manual labour and portrays Joseph the Worker as a path to holiness, not merely a political symbol.
“Today, we celebrate not only fathers as providers and protectors but also as the moral backbone of Nigeria,” he said.
Mr Chidiebere Okafor, Chairman of the Parish CMO, expressed pride that fathers actively participated in the celebrations, showing their commitment and spiritual attitude. “Yesterday’s retreat and health workout saw a strong turnout, indicating fathers are embracing their roles.”
He urged those who have yet to see their roles as fathers and servants of God to take them seriously, joining the effort to raise their families effectively.
Barr. Pauly Onyeka, Parish Council Vice Chairman and former Housing Commissioner, praised the fathers’ active participation, noting the large turnout.
The celebration climaxed with a thanksgiving procession, honouring past leaders, and the inauguration of new members.
Ifeyinwa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
