I. Introduction

We all have stories to tell of our fathers, whether they are our biological fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, or the ones who have assumed the roles of father figures in the absence of a father. Some of them are still with us, while others have passed away. These are the individuals we rely on or consult with for advice, who offer support and care, and provide guidance and discipline. These are the men who helped shape us, and built our character as best as they could, who showed us the little things in life, and the larger world we travel in. These are the men who tried their best to raise us and, and still do, and whom we want to honor and remember today on Father's Day.

I had the privilege of being raised by my biological father, who, despite his strict demeanor, deeply cared for his children and was committed to ensuring the best for us. He was very smart, and intelligent, the greatest carpenter and jack of all trades. He loved to help everyone in the community and was loved for his care and compassion and charm. But most of all, with my mother, they instilled in us the values of love and friendliness and kindness and respect for others. These are the principles I have upheld throughout my life journey, from my time in South Africa to my experiences in the United States and other countries, engaging with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. When he passed away the day after Christmas in 2012, I felt as if my world came to a standstill. We lost a remarkable man who embodied love, kindness, and complexity, living his last years with love, peace, and forgiveness. I miss him deeply and often find myself conversing with him, particularly when I am working on repairs or maintenance tasks around the house.

II. In Our Oneness We come to you.

When Christ speaks about God, His Father (or parent as many would refer to God), He speaks of the close relationship they have, of the oneness they share, and whatever He had, was His Father's, and then He includes the Holy Spirit Who will take from what is His, and will make it known to the disciples and to His followers. The Spirit will guide the church in all the truth, which is the revelation of God's love in and through Christ for the world. The Spirit will remain with us and continue God's ministry of love, and salvation and compassion and guidance. The Trinity of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, is the manifestation of God's love for the saving of the world. The same oneness that is in the Trinity must therefore be in the church and its followers, and with this gracious gift, the church must give expression to this gift of love, oneness and forgiveness from God. The church, says Edward W. Klink in the commentary on John, is now the extension of the love and mission of God to the world. What an extraordinary relationship between God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and what an example for us to follow.

III. Conclusion

Today, we celebrate fathers, uncles, grandfathers, and all men who play important roles in their children's lives and loved ones. Life has become increasingly complex compared to earlier times, making the guidance and support of fathers and other male adults essential for our youth. These role models play a crucial role in helping young individuals make informed decisions, develop into compassionate and generous adults, and foster a sense of love and service towards God and others. It is simpler when they are young, but as children mature, they may require less parental guidance while they pursue their own goals and ambitions in life. The Trinity comes to you in all its glory and all the help you need to care for them. When you feel confident, the Trinity is sharing in your confidence; when you feel you need help and guidance for the day ahead, the Trinity is there for you. To all of us, this offer is the same. The Holy Spirit guides us to unity, love, and inner peace. The Holy Spirit during this period after Pentecost wants to strengthen us in all that we face. When you do not feel supported, and when things are hard, the Holy Spirit helps you to stay the course of inner peace and joy. And here at church, the Holy Spirit of Pentecost wants to come in our midst and upon us and in us, forgive us from our sins and fill us with itself, which is the power of Divine love, that inner peace and joy that spill over to others. May God help each one of us to see that and yield to its loving counsel. And may God bless you as you carry the responsibility of being an example to the ones who have been given to you by God.

To those of us who do not have our fathers with us in the flesh anymore, we are reminded that our earthly fathers have been given to us for a while. They are there to raise us and to guide us throughout our journey on earth. When they are gone, we continue to remember them in meaningful ways. To those who did not have the experience with your own father, my hope and prayer is that you know deep down that God knows everything, the feelings of loss, or hurt, or anger maybe? God's love and merciful presence give us the comfort that no human being can fully give us. May God give us all the comfort we need, and may God bless all fathers and all homes today and always. Amen.