A priest is addressed as “Father” for a reason. As a human or natural father loves and cares for his children, a priest as a spiritual father loves and cares for his parishioners and all the people of God. Many of the virtues and character traits that make a man a good natural father are the same virtues and character traits that make a priest a good spiritual father.
A good natural father loves his children with all his heart, wants nothing but the best for them, and wants to help them grow into happy and healthy adults. Likewise, a priest who is a spiritual father has a deep love and genuine concern for all those entrusted to his care. The priest has a warm place in his heart for each sheep in his flock. He is alert and aware, constantly paying attention, on the lookout for ways that he can assist and guide, often tailored to the unique circumstances of the individual person. He is particularly attentive to spiritual growth, and he helps his people grow in virtue and holiness on the road to spiritual maturity through his preaching, teaching, writing, wise counsel and good example.
The birth of a child is a life-changing event for a natural father. Previously, the father may have tended to selfish preoccupation and serving his own needs. As a good natural father joyfully embraces his new child, the focus shifts from self to the child with blossoming generosity and willingness to sacrifice. Giving becomes easier. Likewise, a priest who is a spiritual father joyfully embraces his people and places their needs above his wants. He has a generous disposition and gladly shares his time and talent without counting the cost. He is willing to go the extra mile, take the extra time and give the extra effort for the spiritual benefit of his people.
Good natural fathers work hard and provide for their children. Priests who are spiritual fathers are industrious, reliable and dependable, and provide for the spiritual nourishment of their parishioners with Word and sacrament, preaching that enlightens and inspires, and sacramental graces through the Eucharist, reconciliation, and the other sacraments.
Good natural fathers are men of character and conviction and give strong moral guidance to their children. Priests who are spiritual fathers are fiercely dedicated to their Catholic faith, live an upright and moral life, are pillars of strength for their community, teach the fullness of the truths of the Gospel, explain the importance of respect for self and others, prophetically call people to purity and decency, and do so tactfully and courageously.
Good natural fathers shift into overdrive with care and compassion when a child runs into difficulties such as disappointments, misunderstandings, arguments, sickness or loss. They are present and available and offer encouragement and assistance. Priests who are spiritual fathers have special compassion for those who have fallen on hard times and are attentive and helpful to those who are suffering misfortune, emotional turbulence or a troubled relationship, as well as the homebound, the lonely, the elderly, the sick and those who are grieving the death of a loved one.
Good natural fathers are humble, not authoritarian or heavy-handed. They are sincere, honest and truthful; patient and kind, willing to slow down and go at another’s pace, give the benefit of the doubt, and be gentle; and committed, unwavering and steadfast, persevering, especially in times of adversity. The priest who is a spiritual father exemplifies all these virtues in his life and ministry.
Father Van Sloun is the director of clergy personnel for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.
