By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Rev. Canon Chukwudi Anasiudu, the Vicar of St. Paul’s Church, Anglican Communion, Maza-Maza, has emphasised fathers’ vital role in shaping children’s future through prayer, leadership, discipline and godly example.
The cleric spoke on the occasion of the worldwide celebration of Father’s Day.
He said Father’s Day remains a reminder of the sacred responsibility placed on fathers to nurture, guide and support their children beyond material provision, extending to their moral and spiritual development.
Father’s Day is a special annual celebration dedicated to honouring fathers, father figures and their roles in the family and society.
It recognises the sacrifices, guidance, and emotional and financial support fathers provide in raising children.
Anasiudu stressed the importance of consistent prayer, noting that fathers must intercede for their children daily as a shield against negative influences and a source of divine direction.
According to him, many challenges facing young people today could be addressed if fathers embraced their role as spiritual anchors and committed to regular family intercession.
“Fathers must prioritise prayer for their children, even within busy schedules, because prayer remains one of the greatest gifts a father can give his family, especially his children”.
The cleric also highlighted behavioural responsibility, saying children learned more from observation than instruction, making fathers key models of character, discipline and emotional control at home.
He added that how fathers related to their spouses and resolve disagreements significantly shaped children’s understanding of respect, love and conflict management in relationships.
“Children observe everything at home; fathers must therefore demonstrate integrity, patience, respect and godly conduct, knowing that their daily actions become lasting lessons for their children”.
Anasiudu noted that while financial provision was important, children equally required emotional stability, spiritual covering and consistent guidance to grow into responsible adults in society.
He encouraged fathers to combine prayer with active involvement in mentoring, protection, discipline and emotional support for their children’s holistic development.
“A good father is not measured only by provision but by presence, values and example; fathers must lead their homes with wisdom, love and unwavering integrity”.
The service featured special prayers for fathers and families, with congregants urged to renew their commitment to building homes rooted in faith, love, discipline and godly principles.
