A Father's Day Reading

Introduction: Some of our fathers have passed away – and some are with us still. We lift them all up today. This reading was composed from emails from UUFS members and friends in response to a request that they send words or phrases describing their fathers.

Today, we remember and we honor
Papa, Daddy, our old man,
Dad, Father, leader of the band?

Whatever the name, we remember and honor these men!
And we, the members and friends of this fellowship,
Recall them all!

The father that was the good teacher; the one that was informative;

The daddy remembered with loving gratitude for the gentle lesson he taught and lived, that no matter what sadness, trial, or even tragedy comes in life, “This too, shall pass.’

That very exacting father!
The father with high expectations for his children – who kept us safe, and loved us unconditionally!

The dad that was honest and dependable – a man of integrity!
The dad that kept dreams safe, however silly or extravagant they might have been, as if he'd made a glass box to protect a precious flower that we could examine and talk about any time we liked.

The father who was generous,
And the one who was leading,
And the one who exhibited great personal courage and persistance as his illness progressed and never lost his love for the land.

The father that never said “I love you” and who did not give a lot of hugs – but shared through his deeds.

The father who a was risk-taker, but who often and emphatically exhorted us to not take any unnecessary risks.

The man with the plan – and our biggest fan.
Papa, Dad, the old man!
His love remains with us – Come what may!
So Dearest Daddy, we honor you today!

I invite you now to lift up the names of those special men in your lives – your fathers, grandfathers, fathers of your children and grandchildren, and men who have served as father figures for you or for those whom you love.

Amen and Blessed Be