The Supreme Knight of The Order of the Knights of Saint Mulumba Nigeria (KSM), Sir Steve Adehi, SAN, CKSM, KCSS, has called on Catholic fathers across the country to strengthen their roles as spiritual shepherds of their families, particularly amid evolving social and moral challenges.
In a goodwill message issued ahead of the 2026 Father’s Day celebration, scheduled for Sunday, May 3, in most Catholic archdioceses in Nigeria, Adehi described fatherhood as a sacred vocation that goes beyond biological responsibility to encompass moral and spiritual leadership within the home.
He noted that in an era defined by rapid technological advancement, shifting values, and increasing moral uncertainty, fathers must serve as steady guides, anchoring their families in the enduring teachings of Christ and the traditions of the Church.
“The father is not merely the head of the home but a shepherd of souls,” Adehi stated, emphasising that the example fathers set often becomes the first and most enduring lesson in faith for their children.
The KSM Supreme Knight urged fathers to lead with humility, integrity, and courage, stressing the importance of nurturing both the physical and spiritual well-being of their families. He encouraged them to remain steadfast in prayer, resilient in adversity, and committed to instilling values that will shape future generations.
Adehi also acknowledged the sacrifices made by fathers, noting that while many of their efforts go unnoticed, their impact remains profound in building stable families and a morally grounded society.
He concluded by invoking the intercession of Saint Joseph, widely regarded in Catholic tradition as the model of fatherhood, and prayed that homes across the nation would continue to reflect faith, hope, and love.
Father’s Day in the Catholic Church is observed as a time to honour fathers and reflect on their pivotal role in nurturing faith within the family, often described as the “domestic church.”
