Fathers of Saint Joseph – Meeting Notes [28th March 2026]

Date: 28th March 2026

Location: St. Mary’s Pope’s Quay, Cork, T23 P8ER

Context

We started with adoration before our reflections.

Reflection Reading

Book: LEAD: The Four Marks of Fatherly Greatness by Devin Schadt

Pillar 4: Discover the Disciple (Embrace the Child)

Reflection #174: Becoming a Father on Earth as The Father in Heaven (Page 401)

Anonymous (n.d.) Christ Healing the Paralytic. Yale University Art Gallery. Available at: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Anonymous_-_Baptistery_wall_painting,_Christ_Healing_the_Paralytic_-_1932.1202.jpg (Accessed: 13 April 2026).

Notes

The reflection reminded us that a father is called to be a link between God the Father and his children. This is lived in simple and concrete ways: through our words, our presence, and our actions. We are invited to help our children see their dignity, guide them with what they need to grow, and bless them so they can become who God calls them to be.

It also highlighted three simple ways a father reflects God: being a voice that speaks truth and encouragement, a face that shows care and attention, and a touch that brings comfort and blessing. In this, fatherhood is not only about what we do, but how we are with our children, helping them experience God’s love in daily life.

Reproduction of diagram from page 401, LEAD: The Four Marks of Fatherly Greatness by Devin Schadt

Shared Thoughts from the Group

• In Brazil, we used to have a popular custom where children would ask for a blessing. This reflected a more Christian and caring environment within families and among relatives.

• At the same time, to avoid prayer becoming mechanical or repetitive, it was suggested that fathers could give a simple, daily blessing to their children, speaking to the specific challenges of the day. This can help children understand prayer as a conversation with God, while still valuing traditional prayers.

Personal Reflections & Final Thought

This meeting was a simple reminder that fatherhood is lived in daily acts of care, attention, and prayer. In small ways, we are called to reflect God’s love to our children, trusting that these efforts, even when imperfect, can guide them closer to Him.